The distaff is a long stick, sometimes very elaborate, with the upper end wider than the rest of the instrument, which can take on various shapes: pointed, fork-shaped, with two points, etc. The mass of fibers ready to be spun using the spindle or spinning wheel was fixed to the distaff, often also thanks to a special conical cap (of parchment, cardboard, fabric or leather).
The distaff was often used as an engagement or wedding gift and the lover engraved or had engraved decorations, such as the initials of his name and that of his beloved next to the numbers indicating the year. The conical cap was also often used as a gift and was therefore very decorated.