Spindle Whorl or Button 5th-8th century The dot-in-circle motif recalls designs presumed to be of magical significance, most likely an abstract eye to ward off the evil-eye, which serves an apotropaic function. Easily reproduced with a tool and visible in many cultures and times, this symbol may have lost its meaning, and become simply a decorative pattern, or may have one that we have not yet discovered. Spindle Whorl or Button. 5th-8th century. Bone; incised. From Palestine, Sbaita. Ivories and Bone