Charm

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This goose's 'thrapple' of larynx filled with lead duck-shot was worn as a charm against whooping cough, probably in the 19th century. It is from Balmaghie in Kirkcudbrightshire.

The dried 'thrapple' has been bent round into a ring.

The character of the disease affecting the larynx and respiratory tracts may have attracted the use of this curative amulet of a larynx, which would thus place this part of the body under the protection of an appropriate element.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-002-726-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.NO 36
• Date: Early 19th century
  Probably 19th century
  
• Material: Lead shot
  
• Dimensions: 15 mm H; 43 mm D
  
• What:
• Subject: Jewellery: charms, amulets (NMAS Classification)
  
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Kirkcudbrightshire, Balmaghie Parish
  
• Event:
• Description: Goose's thrapple bent in the form of a ring and containing lead duck-shot, worn as a charm against whooping cough, from Balmaghie Parish, Kirkcudbrightshire, probably early 19th century
  
• References:
  • Black, G.F. 'Scottish charms and amulets', Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland 27 (1892-3), p 517 
  • Scottish Charms and Amulets / G.F. Black - PSAS 27 (1892-3), 433-526, p. 517 
  • Thompson, C. J. S., The Hand of Destiny. Everyday Folklore and Superstitions, London: 1932 
• Translations:
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