A Case of Identity. Investigating the Symbolism of Spindle Whorls in Early and Middle Cypriot Tombs

Abstract

Spindle whorls are amongst the small objects most frequently recovered from Early and Middle Bronze Age cemeteries in Cyprus (c. 2400–1650 BC). Nonetheless, little has been done to investigate their meaning. This paper will explore the symbolism of spindle whorls and its possible implications for the construction of the deceased’s identity. In particular, we will discuss the concept of whorls as sex/gender markers, and how and to what extent these artefacts may have played a role in the ideological system of Early/Middle Cypriot society alluding to aspects of the personal, social, and group identities of the deceased. To do this, the investigation will follow a case-study design in which select burial contexts from the Early and Middle Cypriot sites of Erimi Laonin tou Porakou, Lapithos Vrysi tou Barba, and Galinoporni will be included. The analysis of different key elements related to the whorls’ deposition within the tombs examined (e.g. formal characteristics, evidence for use-wear, location, relationship with bodies, and association occurrences) and the identification of recurring patterns will facilitate a discussion on the reasons behind the transformation of these tools into grave goods.