Chemainus, Coast Salish. <em>Spindle Whorl (Sulsultin)</em>, 19th century. Hardwood, pigment traces, 8 3/4 x 8 3/4 x 3/8 in. (22.2 x 22.2 x 1 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Museum Expedition 1905, Museum Collection Fund, 05.588.7382. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: , 05.588.7382_05.588.7383_Design_scan_bw.jpg)

Spindle Whorl (Sulsultin)

Artist:Chemainus, Coast Salish

Medium: Hardwood, pigment traces

Geograhical Locations:

Dates:19th century

Dimensions: 8 3/4 x 8 3/4 x 3/8 in. (22.2 x 22.2 x 1 cm)

Collections:

Exhibitions:

Accession Number: 05.588.7382

Image: 05.588.7382_05.588.7383_Design_scan_bw.jpg,

Catalogue Description:
The object is a spindle whorl carved on one side with a human form surrounded by a two headed snake. There are traces of red pigment in the carved detail. There is a theory that carved spindle whorls, as opposed to plain whorls, were used for spining mountain goat wool, the material used to make ceremonial garments. The object is in good and stable condition with no splits or cracks in the wood. The hole in the center is slightly worn and a small section from the rim on the back is missing.

Brooklyn Museum