Silver Quaich

Derived from the Gaelic word ‘cuach’ -meaning ‘cup’- quaichs first appeared during the 16th century. They were initially made from wood, and resembled a shallow bowl with small handles attached to either side. Various types of wood were used in order to create patterns of lighter and darker tones. Later, in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, quaichs were embellished with silver mounts. Eventually, quaichs also began to be made from silver. Some were engraved with lines to give the impression of staves, and so replicate the appearance of their wooden predecessors.

A quaich ceremony is simply when a quaich is shared at an event, for example at a wedding, or traditional Scottish events such as Burn’s Night. The quaich is passed from person to person. It is often referred to as the love cup for that very reason: each person takes a handle in turn to take a drink, showing that you trust one another to share the cup. It has been suggested that the real reason for holding the quaich with both hands when drinking is to ensure that no one present at the ceremony is holding any weapons in their hands when you meet them.