The nimph with tongs? pincers? (f80r)

[Koen G]

I actually think at least one of the rings , the one held by the kingly figure with blue hair, represents a mirror. Perhaps mirrors were used for some types of observations or measurements?

Also, if we take the Thing to refer to a traveller's horlogium as well as a spindle, that would provide a more clear and direct connection between it and the cross staff etc.