I am not sure what this roller was used for but I am certain it is from a textile mill and it is an antique!! It was manufactured by Spencer Johnston (see photo 5!!) and is in EXCELLENT condition with a little looseness on the copper wire on the one end!! This may have been the way it was designed so as to attach to some other part!! The ends are solid brass or bronze and the wire mesh is brass, I believe, with no damage!! Approx. 13.5" long overall and the roller is 10.5" long X 2.5" in diameter!! Please see my many other collectible and antique listings and email me with any questions!!