Vannhjulet

Vannhjulet is a common term used in Swedish to describe a large, decorative paddle or sill that protrudes from the wall below a window in a dwelling. It is typically rectangular in shape and has a handle or grip attached to it.

The purpose of a vannhjulet is to supply water to the house. Traditionally, farmers would use a long wooden handle to scoop up water from a nearby well or rainwater collection barrel and pour it into the container at the top of the vannhjulet. The water would then drain into a bucket or vessel positioned below the vannhjulet, providing a convenient and efficient way to access water for household purposes.

The vannhjulet was a ubiquitous feature in Swedish homes and farmhouses, particularly in rural areas where access to running water was limited. The design of the vannhjulet varied depending on the region and individual craftsmanship, but it was often decorated with intricate carvings or other ornamentation.

Today, vannhjulet can still be found in many Swedish homes and museums, albeit mostly as a functional or decorative element rather than a primary means of accessing water. Its significance lies in its historical and cultural importance as a representation of traditional Swedish architecture and household practices.

The term "vannhjulet" also has a broader sense, referring to the entire system of supplying water to a household through a network of containers, channels, and manual devices. This more extensive definition encompasses the complex and intricate arrangements of water distribution that were common in rural Sweden during earlier periods.