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Scottish Quaichs - A Small History |
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Scottish Quaichs
Quaich is a Scots rendering of the Gaelic word "cuach": meaning cup. Centuries ago quaichs were built of wooden staves, and by the 17th century quaichs were often mounted in silver or entirely from the metal. The quaich was used for whisky or brandy, and in the 19th century Sir Walter Scott dispensed drams in silver quaichs but the quaich he kept for himself was particularly precious to him. ....In 1745 the quaich had travelled from Edinburgh to Derby with the Scottish Army in Bonnie Prince Charlie's canteen. The quaich bottom was made of glass so that the drinker could keep watch on his companions. A more romantic quaich had a double glass bottom in which was kept a lock of hair, so that the owner could drink from his quaich to his lady love, and in 1589 King James VI of Scotland gave Anne of Norway a quaich or "loving cup" as a wedding gift. Quaichs were used for visitor's welcome or farewell cups by proud Clan Chiefs, worthy merchants or humble crofters. Quaichs have kept their simple but beautiful shape and friendly purpose.
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