distaff

Wooden distaff with an integral whorl consisting of 2 loops attached toward one end. The loops appear to consist of smaller branches bent back, and the unattached ends inserted into recesses in the main rod. The end above this point has been carved into the shape of a bird. Below this 2 carved bands decorate the textile tool. The top one is decorated with chevrons. The lower one is decorated with zigzags. At the top and halfway along the second band are raised rings which are decorated with similar patterns.

Collection Information

These objects are only a part of our collections, of which there are more than 350,000 objects. This information comes from our collections database. Some of this is incomplete and there may be errors. This part of the website is also still under construction, so there may be some fields repeated or incorrectly formatted information.

The database retains language taken from historical documents to help research. Please note that some records may feature language and reflect systems of thinking that are outdated and offensive. The database also includes information on objects that are considered secret or sacred by some communities.

If you have any further information about objects in our collections, can suggest corrections to our information or if you see content requiring immediate action, please contact us: enquiry@horniman.ac.uk