Object Image

Truncated-biconical spindle-whorl with flat base

Spindle whorls aided in the making of cloth for garments and bedding. They were placed in tombs, perhaps so that the deceased could continue to spin wool in the afterlife.

Credit: The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76 ...
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c. 2000-1725 B.C.
Terracotta; hand-made
4.9cm
74.51.905
Image and text © Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2019

Where you'll find this

The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Permanent collection