A distaff is a tool used in spinning and it’s designed to hold the unspun fibres, keeping them untangled and thus easing the spinning process. For millennia, spinning has been an inherent part of feminine household work. Distaffs made of various materials, such as glass, wood, bone, ivory or bronze were used throughout the ancient world, especially in areas where wool was common. Given the small size of glass distaffs, such as these ones, it is more likely that they were destined to women’s tombs and had more of a symbolic value than a practical one.
A Selection of Roman Glass Distaffs
£ 150.00
Two beautiful Ancient Roman distaffs in coloured glass, both with a tapering, pointed end and at the other end a loop for securing the hold with a finger.
NB: The price is per individual item.
Condition: Very fine, both items feature some beautiful iridescence on the surface.
| Dimensions | cm |
|---|---|
| Choice of Item | A, B |
| Glass | Blown Glass |
| Region | Southern Europe |
