Quaich

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A quaich was a shallow drinking vessel unique to Scotland. This silver example was made around 1750 by Edinburgh silversmith Edward Lothian. It is inscribed 'A hundred to one' which was possibly the motto of an Edinburgh betting or convivial club.

The quaich has three handles or 'lugs'. Underneath the motto there is an engraving of a draped figure of lady balancing on one foot on a wheel.

In 18th century Scotland, various kinds of clubs were prominent in the social scene. The tavern was an ideal place for the members to meet and membership varied depending on whether the club was for political, debating, literary or convivial purposes.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-001-019-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.MEQ 943
• Date: Around 1750
  c. 1750
  
• Material: Silver. Inscription: E.L. [below a crown]; inside: a draped figure of a lady balancing one foot on a wheel; A HUNDRED TO ONE; SCOB AS E
  
• Dimensions: 30 mm H x 110 mm W
  
• What:
• Subject: Gold and silver (NMAS Classification)
  
• Who: Edward Lothian, Edinburgh (Silversmith)
  
• Where: Scotland, Midlothian, Edinburgh
  
• Event:
• Description: Three-lugged silver quaich by Edward Lothian, Edinburgh, c. 1750, inscribed "A Hundred to One" and "Scob As E", possibly the motto of an Edinburgh betting or convivial club
  
• References:
  • Keay, J. & J. (eds). Collins Encyclopaedia of Scotland. London: HarperCollins, 1994, p 793. 
• Translations:
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