səl̓səl̓tən (Spindle Whorl)

Homer Barnett (1955) notes that spindle whorls used by the southern Coast Salish of BC are larger than those used in the north, with a shaft that is twice as long as the whorl. In the north, fibres were spun on smaller whorls that were "twirled between the leg and palm (1955:118)." By contrast, whorls such as this one were used to spin fibres that were suspended from overhead. This arrangement created a tension in the roving. Johnson and Bernick (1986) report that traditionally several different techniques were used for turning the spindle, however, contemporary weavers now make use of a spinning machine that is similar in appearance to a treadle sewing machine.

Tom Richardson purchased the spindle whorl from Mrs. McVicker. Maude McVicker owned property near Metchosin, on southern Vancouver Island, and ran 'The Hobbies Shop' in Victoria.

weaving; spinning; decorative art

The sea mammals represent sea-lions, while the birds represent ravens. The sea lions resemble petroglyphs from the same area: sea-lion petroglyphs have been documented at Aldridge Point, which is located nearby Metchosin in East Sooke. Archaeologists Beth and Ray Hill report that: "Long years ago a great supernatural animal like a sea-lion killed many of the Beecher Bay Indians when canoeing. The tribe became nearly extinct; the remaining members were afraid to go on the water until one day a mythical man caught the sea-lion and turned him into the stone representation as seen on Aldridge Point (1974:57)."

Round wooden spindle whorl with a hole in its centre. The top surface is convex with a flat ring around the hole and is painted with animal designs: raven and killer whale. The whales are predominantly orange with yellow accents, while the ravens are blue with orange accents. The back is slightly concave (with a small leather strap nailed into wood).