A beautiful antique wooden umbrella swift, also known as a wool winder or yarn swift, used to hold skeins of wool while they were wound into balls. With its expanding concertina structure, turned wooden central column and clamp base, this piece is both a practical textile tool and a striking decorative object.
Its warm honey-toned wood, visible patina and elegant mechanical form give it wonderful character. It comes from a Portuguese manor house and has the quiet charm of an object once used in domestic textile work, possibly dating from the late 19th to early 20th century.
Overall, it is in very good antique condition. There is one small broken wooden rod, which appears restorable, and another small previous repair to a slender rod. There are signs of age, use and minor wear, as expected, but the piece remains highly decorative and collectible.
Measurements: 53 cm high x 60 cm diameter when open
Weight: 0.466 kg
