Spindle whorl

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A spindle whorl was hung at the end of a strand or ball of wool, to act as a flywheel as it was spun into yarn using a spindle. This steatite example was found at Jarlshof in Shetland. It was used sometime between 850 and 1000.

Spindle whorl of steatite, from Jarlshof, Shetland, 850 - 1000 AD

Spindle whorls are often the only evidence preserved of spinning. Steatite was a popular material for Scandinavians, who were used to its properties from Norway, and exploited the outcrops in Shetland when they settled there.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-102-593-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.HSA 416
• Date: 850 - 1000 AD
  Between 850 and 1000
  
• Material: Steatite, grey; bun shaped, flattened top
  Whorl
  
• Dimensions: 1.3" D, 0.6" deep
  
• What: Whorl
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Shetland, Sumburgh, Jarlshof
  
• Event:
• Description:
• References:
  • Graham-Campbell, J. Viking artefacts. A select catalogue. London: Trustees of the British Museum, 1980, no. 70. 
• Translations:
• Related Records: