Pine, Clay and Pine Sap
San Andrés
18" long x 1" diameter on the weight

Called a "petet' in the local language a spindle is a device used to spin fibers into thread. Spindles or parts of them have been found in ancient archaeological sites; they may represent one of the earliest pieces of technology available to humankind. This spindle is made of pinewood with a clay weight, which is coated in pinesap for protection. It's hand carved and the cut marks are beautiful. This is a common object found in every home in this region of Chiapas as the majority of the indigenous women of the area still weave their own clothing. One interesting note is their sheep is a cherished animal, much like the cow in India. It is never eaten and when sheared it is given a protective coat to keep it warm and dry.