Edwardian Quaich by John Maitland Talbot, Edinburgh

A small silver quaich displaying two flat handles decorated with circular scrolls on a simple foot rim. The base has hallmarks for sterling silver [925], John Maitland Talbot [JMT], Edinburgh, 1904. John Maitland Talbot was an Edinburgh based jeweller and silversmith with a strong connection to the Arts & Crafts movement where his work is highly regarded.

Quaichs are a uniquely Scottish drinking vessel with the name coming from the Gaelic cuach, meaning cup. Originally produced in wood, they were often made with staves which were then bound with withies (strips of willow) with the handles carved as an extension the stave, or they were simply turned on a lathe. During the mid-17th century, silversmiths turned their skills towards the wooden quaich and began adding silver mounts in the form of rims, feet, and fitted plates to the tops of the handles or the centre of the bowl. By the 1660s, silversmiths were making quaichs entirely of silver. The popularity of the quaich continues today.

Condition:

In excellent condition with a tiny spot of tarnish in the centre of the bowl.

Dimensions:

Length across handles 11.2cm

Diameter of bowl 6.3cm

Height 3.2cm

Weight 62.6g