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Loom weights

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from Jarlshof, Shetland

Postcard of Loom weights.
000-190-004-089-C
© National Museums Scotland

Loom weights

Loom weights were used to weight the vertical threads (the warp) on upright looms. These two steatite examples were found at Jarlshof in Shetland. They were used between 850 and 1000.

The weight on the left has been partially bored near the centre, but completely bored near its tip. The weight on the right has radial nicks from the edges, and lines on each face, the purpose of which is unclear.

The Vikings used steatite for a wide range of artefacts including cooking vessels, spindle whorls, lamps and fishing line sinkers. They were familiar with its uses from Norway, and must have been pleased to find the steatite outcrops in Shetland.


Record details

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Online ID: 000-190-004-089-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.HSA 561
Date: Between 850 and 1000
Material: Steatite; partly bored perforation near centre of one face, complete perforation near tip; made from lump
Steatite; trapezoid; radial nicks from edges, lines on each face
Dimensions: 4 x 2.9 x 1.6"
5.30" x 4.50"
What: Loom weight
Loom weight
Subject:
Who:
Where: Scotland, Shetland, Sumburgh, Jarlshof
Scotland, Shetland, Sumburgh, Jarlshof
Event:
Description: Trapezoid steatite loom weight with radial nicks from edges and lines on each face, from Jarlshof
Loom weight
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