THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MAGAZINE 





THE DISTAFF OF THE SPINSTER IN THE DOURO DISTRICT, NORTHERN 



PORTUGAL 



The spindle and the distaff are still employed here for producing the best linen thread used in the 

 beautiful laces for which Portugal is famed. Woolen yarn for the family clothing is also spun by this 

 primitive method. Rustic life in Portugal is not a dull, dreary grind, for each epoch of the farming 

 year is celebrated with a festa, and of fairs and such gatherings there is no end. 



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