Needlecase

Needlecases belong to a very rare category of objects found in archaeological sites. In Poland, there are only a dozen or so pieces that have been preserved. They are described in the literature as containers, cases used for storing and protecting metal needles and sewing pins from breaking or being lost. The most numerous group is represented by needlecases made from the severed tips of antlers. They were worked by specialised craftsmen - antler artisans. These items were also made of bone, wood, metal and, more rarely, leather. They are of a simple design, not very long with a tubular diameter, closed at the top with a plug. One of the most interesting and at the same time different objects is an object from Wolin, which resembles a fish with clearly detailed fins, decorated with an eyelet ornament. The featured needlecase, dated to the 2nd half of the 10th century, was obtained during excavations at the early medieval stronghold in Kamień Pomorski conducted in 1960 by Władysław Garczyński (1925-2010). Its surface is covered with decoration in the form of a simplified plait. The upper part of the walls have holes for threading a cord attached to a belt or tied around the neck. Grzegorz Durdyń