This trio of wooden spools would have been used by industrial weavers around the Turn-of-the-Twentieth-Century. The yarns would have been wound around the spools, each of which has been augmented with metal banding (presumably to protect a high-wear area). During weaving, as a particular color of yarn was used-up, an attentive weaver would have replaced the spent spool, keeping the machinery humming. The contrast between the warm, natural wood and the industrial form (with metallic banding) creates an interesting juxtaposition of material and form. They are shown being used as primitive candlesticks, however, because they do not have wide bases, they should be carefully supervised (or tacked-down with museum putty) to monitor tipping. Additionally, one should not burn the candle down to the bottom (for fear of burning the wooden spool). Click on the photo to learn more about them.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
We also can be found in Pittsburgh's historic "Strip District" at Mahla & Co. Antiques (www.mahlaantiques.com) or in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania at The Antique Center of Strabane (www.antiquecenterofstrabane.com).
Or call to arrange to visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only). 917-446-4248