The Scottish Quaich. A Quick Guide
Quaichs are one of the most highly regarded Scottish gifts and souvenirs today. A common question is what is a Quaich? Well if you do not hail from Scotland or are not familiar with Scottish culture you may not know.
Quaich is pronounced “Quake”. It originates from a Scottish Gaelic word “Cuach” meaning cup. The Gaelic “Cuach” is derived from the Latin word “Cacus”.
A Quaich is a shallow drinking vessel with two flat handles on either side. In some instances a Quaich may have three handles. Quaichs can vary in size from miniature ornaments (1 inch) up to larger sizes. Some reportedly have been large enough to hold 1 1/2 pints. Traditionally Quaichs are used for drinking whiskey to toast special occasions such as Burns Night, New Years Eve, weddings, anniversaries, and christenings. Although the large Quaichs of of the past by were probably used to hold ale.
The origins of the Quaich may be open to dispute. Several theories exist. First the Quaich is said to have originated in England and Holland in the 17th Century. They were shallow silver bowls used as “bleeding” vessels. Others would argue that the Quaich is uniquely Scottish and has not connection whatsoever with any other country. Another belief is the Quaich originates from scallop shells used as cups.
Traditionally Quaichs were made from wood and were coloured. They were also made of horn, pewter, brass, and silver. More refined Quaichs were made using pewter, silver, and gold. They began to appear in Edinburgh in the mid 17th Century. Pewter and silver were the most common materials used. Quaichs of today are made of pewter. In the 17th Century the manufacture of quality Quaichs was a highly regarded profession.
From the 17th Century to today Quaichs have been decorated with Celtic Patterns. Earlier Quaichs were decorated with a coin or coat of arms at the base. In the mid 18th century Bonnie Prince Charlie carried a Quaich with hist Army to England. There are stories of the base of the Quaich being made of glass so he could keep an eye open for any potential adversaries whilst drinking. On a more romantic note some Quaichs are said to have a glass bottom containing a lock of hair. There are many stories of Quaichs being presented as a symbol of love, loyalty and friendship. Some designs and symbols have influenced and can be seen in the many Scottish jewellery gift items given as token of love and loyalty. The many pendants and brooches, sold on the high street and online gift shops today, decorated with the luckenbooth hearts of Edinburgh are just one example.
The Scottish pewter quaichs of today are many and varied in design. They can be embellished with traditional designs such as one of Scotland’s national symbols, the thistle. Quaichs are also decorated with Robert Burns quotations, the Celtic Cross, the Irish Claddagh and traditional vows of love and devotion. A popular quote is “Of Earthly Joys Thou Art My Choice”. Another favourite is the Gaelic “Ceud Mille Failte” which translates to “A hundred thousand welcomes”.
From the 17th Century to today Quaichs have been and still are popular gift items . Whilst there are many novel Scottish gift ideas on the market, some better than others, some add a personal touch that carry real meaning with a timeless appeal. Hence the popularity of the Quaich today.
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