Whorl
Unknown Artist
7th century BCE
Medium
Amber
Dimensions
Diameter: 1 13/16 x 5/8 in. (4.6 x 1.6 cm)
Classification
Miscellaneous-Amber
Culture & Period
Etruscan or Italic · Late Geometric
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, 1896
Accession Number
96.9.482
Art Historical Context
Behold the delicate "Whorl," a small yet captivating artifact from the 7th century BCE, crafted by an unknown artist in the Late Geometric period. Hailing from Etruscan or Italic culture this amber object—measuring just 1 13/16 x 5/8 inches (4.6 x 1.6 cm)—exemplifies the everyday artistry of pre-Roman Italy. Likely a spindle whorl used for spinning wool or linen thread, it reflects the practical ingenuity of ancient households, where even utilitarian tools blended form and function. Amber, sourced from Baltic shores and traded across the Mediterranean, held immense value in antiquity for its ...