Tunbridgeware Table Pin Wheel

This table pin wheel is an excellent example of the turned stickware using end grain in Tunbridgeware. It is a lovely small size and is a great example of turnery. The design was introduced by Barton and was extremely popular with subsequent turners. For this reason it is hard to date, but in the Austen reference (page 83) is the explanation of how to make exactly this sort of piece by Holtzapfel, as supplied by Burrows. Looking at the piece really closely I would have to conclude that the little baluster turned base was probably added later to a pin wheel with decoration only to one side. But then that in itself is unusual so one cannot be certain. The turning is, however, really fine. The end result is extremely good too. Size 1 1/4″ high x 1 5/8″ across. A lovely sewing accessory.