Celtic Lead Fusaioles (spindle dumplings) (No reserve price)

Five lead spindle whorls (fusaioles) with a toothed, star-shaped or serrated edge, often referred to as fusaioles à cabochons or à godrons. This type of cast lead specimen with such edges is typically dated from the Gallo-Roman period up to the early/high Middle Ages (c. 2nd to 14th centuries AD). The size ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 cm. They served as flywheels for spinning wool/textiles. A wooden spindle (the spindle shaft) was threaded through the central hole. The weight of the lead acted as a flywheel to hold and stabilize the rotating motion of the spindle during hand-spinning of thread from fibers (such as wool or flax). The protrusions and serrations on the outer edge helped when pouring the molten lead into the mold and gave a better grip on the weight as someone gave the spindle an extra flick by hand. The symmetrical knobs (even weight distribution) ensured a stable rotation. Because lead is very heavy for its volume, these lead spindle whorls were compact, yet heavy enough to maintain a firm tension on the spun thread. The last photo shows a booklet written about these objects. N.B. added a small disk with a radial pattern on the front and back. All objects were found in France and came from a collection in my possession through purchase.

Estimate:$168.03

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