Charm, with motto of MacNeil of Barra, Outer Hebrides

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This charm is said to have been given to women as protection in childbirth. It is made from a seed of Ipomoea Tuberosa which has drifted north in the Atlantic, probably from the coast of West Africa or the West Indies. It has been mounted in silver bands and engraved with the motto of MacNeil of Barra in the Outer Hebrides. It dates from the 18th century.

The motto reads 'VINCERE AUT MORI', which translates as 'To conquer or die'.

These drift seed charms are first mentioned in John Morrison's 'Description of Lewis' of around 1678-88. They have been referred to in Gaelic as 'Airne Moire' or 'Mary's Nut'.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-002-730-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.NO 41
• Date: 18th century
  
• Material: Seed, Ipomoea Tuberosa. Inscription: VINCERE AUT MORI; [cognisance of Macneil of Barra]
  Charm
  
• Dimensions: 30 mm H x 30 mm Dia
  
• What: Charm
  
• Subject: Jewellery: charms, amulets (NMAS Classification)
  
• Who: Macneil of Barra
  
• Where: Scotland, Western Isles, Barra
  
• Event:
• Description: Charm made from a seed of Ipomoea Tuberosa, mounted for suspension, and engraved with cognisance and the motto of Macneil of Barra
  
• References:
  • Black, G.F. 'Scottish charms and amulets', Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland 27 (1892-3), p 480 
  • Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland 12 (1876-8), p 504 
  • Scottish Charms and Amulets / G.F. Black - PSAS 27 (1892-3), 433-526, p. 480 
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