Spindle Socket
About this object
History of use
Ladakhi families are self-sufficient in the production of woolen goods. Both men and women spin when every they have a free moment. This spindle socket is made from the kernel of an apricot stone which has had all the oil pressed out. It is used as a cup to support the end of the spindle (p'ang) while the wool is being spun. The left hand twists the p'ang while the right feeds the wool onto the spindle and pulls it out in long threads.
Cultural context
spinning
Physical description
Cylindrical kernel of an apricot stone, flat on the bottom with a shallow cup-like depression on the top. Made of a stone-like material which is brown with white or yellow flecks throughout. A black deposit resides within the depression in several spots.
Materials
