Name/Title
Spinning Wheel (1850-1900)Entry/Object ID
2019.002a-cDescription
This is a spinning wheel with two accessories, a bobbin and distaff. It is unclear if it is an authentic object that tells the story of a Palestinian in diaspora, however it is certain that it was not produced in historic Palestine. The wheel's diameter is 17 inches and the wood appears to be walnut. The distaff uses a different wood and doesn't appear a part of the original set.
A spinning wheel with a triangular base likely made of walnut or other hard wood. It is approximately 27 inches high and 28 inches at its widest point. The wheel sits within two horizontal bars and the maiden, bobbin, flyer and mother-of-all sits the left of the wheel. The treadle is centered in the triangular base.
The spokes of the wheel and legs were turned in the same manner as a fine furniture. Iron components were included in the flyer.
The spinning wheel had been dismantled with damage to the turned legs that provided the support for the cross bars that support the wheel and maidens. Only one of the legs was in complete condition; two were missing their screw ends.
Restoration would require the replacement of parts of the legs to make it a secure connection. The wheel itself is in good condition and spins smoothly.
The wheel itself likely dates to the late 19th century and it resembles other examples from continental Europe particularly in the method of manufacture and the use of hardwood. The form of this wheel cannot be described as either an upright wheel (where the spinning mechanism is above the wheel) nor a castle wheel (where the spinning mechanism is below the wheel). It more resembles a horizontally oriented Saxony wheel but with no solid base above which the wheel sits; rather the wheel is placed between two horizontal bars with a second bar to the right and the spinning mechanism to the left.Made/Created
Date made
circa 1850 - circa 1900
