Bidspirit auction | 19th Century Hardwood Double Squirrel-Cage
19th Century Hardwood Double Squirrel-Cage Yarn Swift - A 19th-century textile tool crafted from dark-stained hardwood, specifically a double squirrel-cage yarn swift. Local to Tain The device features two rotating spool cages mounted on horizontal arms extending from a tall vertical pillar. The upper arm adjusts within a central slot to accommodate various skein sizes, secured by a wooden pin. The entire structure stands on a robust rectangular base with four splayed, tapered legs. Construction utilizes traditional wooden treenails and iron rods for the axles and tensioners. Faint incised numeric characters are visible on the spool discs, but these markings are not legible as a maker name. No manufacturer stamps or labels are present on the wooden components.