On large sailing ships, sails were raised and lowered using blocks and sheets (the line attached to the sail). Well, when the sails had to come down fast in a storm, the somewhat weighty blocks would collapse on the deck. To protect the decks against this form of punishment, thump mats were made and used to soften the blow. Hopefully, my mats, made as they are from tightly twisted cotton, will have an easier life.
10 inches in diameter.
Available in limited quantities each year.
