Pre-Columbian Malacate (Aztecs - Mayans - Quimbaya - Incas) Terracotta Spindle of hoist - 24 mm (No reserve price)

This object is a Pre-Columbian spindle whorl (also called a spindle or malacate), an archaeological artifact used by indigenous cultures in America for spinning textile fibers before the Europeans arrived.

Dimensions: 44 x 24 mm

Pre-Columbian culture, dating from approximately the 4th to the 7th century CE.

Spinels are frequently found in archaeological excavations in regions such as Mexico (including the Aztecs and Maya) and the Andes (including the Quimbaya and Incas). They are often discovered in graves, indicating the significant status of textile production in these societies, often associated with female identity.

Function and Use

Flywheel: The spinstone served as a weight on the top or bottom of a wooden spinning top.
Rotation: Due to the weight, the spindle kept spinning longer and more evenly, allowing fibers such as cotton, wool (from alpaca or llama), or maguey fibers to be twisted into a strong thread.

Wire gauge: The weight and size of the stone determined the type of wire; light spinning stones were often used for fine fibers like cotton, while heavier specimens were used for stiffer fibers.

Features

Material and style: This particular example is made of terracotta and features detailed, carved decorations. Sometimes, these spindle stones were also made from stone, bone, or wood.

Shape: Often disk-shaped, conical, or spherical with a hole in the middle for the spindle.

Decoration: Many pre-Columbian spinstones are richly decorated with incisions, stamps, or geometric motifs. These decorations sometimes held symbolic meaning or served as marks of ownership.

Cultural significance: Such decorated spinning disks highlight the importance of textile production and craftsmanship in ancient societies.


Shipping method: this lot is excellently packaged and shipped via DHL using Catawiki's smart shipping.