Ceremonial spindle whorl, 10th-15th century
Mayaexpand_more
Stoneexpand_more
Gift of Mrs. Stanley Hawksexpand_more 78.84
Not on Viewexpand_more
According to Maya worldview, the Sun's cyclical journey across the sky, through the underworld, and back again began with the whirling of a spindle. This cosmic relationship is referenced in the carvings which adorn this spindle whorl; the personified sun and its rays of light would be set in motion by the actions of the spinner. The whorl - a fly wheel to give momentum to the rotating spindle - thus becomes a symbol of the world's creation, connecting the creative powers of the gods and the celestial realm with the spinners and weavers on earth.
Details
- Title
- Ceremonial spindle whorl
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 78.84
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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