Quaichs first became popular in the early 17th century as a cup for drinking whisky and brandy from
It is thought that the first quaichs developed from scallop shells which were used ascups for drinking whiskey by people in the Highlands.. Similar to scallop shells quaichs were wide and shallow in design. handles were added to make them easier to hold. The shape of the quaich has been fixed for more than four hundred years.
Initially quaichs were made from a single piece of wood, from the late 17th century as craftsmen became more proficient they used light and dark wood and strands of copper to create intricate patterns from this time the skills needed to make quaichs were highly regarded. Other materials such as a range of materials were employed to make quaichs from stone and brass to horn and silver. The centre of the quaich was sometimes decorated with a silver coin or disc featuring a coat of arms or family motto - as well as adding a decorative aspect it serverd to hide any joins. The lugs (handles) were frequently covered with silver or pewter where the owners initials could be displayed. During the 17th century in Scotland there was a craze for adding ones initials to property.
In 1745 Bonnie Prince Charlie took the quaich with him to England when he travelled down from Edinburgh with his army. These quaichs had a glass bottom so that the drinker could keep an eye out on his drinking comrades.
The most romantic Quaich had a double bottom in which a lock of hair was placed, in 1589 King James VI of Scotland gave Anne of Norway such a Quaich as a wedding gift.
A piper is often rewarded for his participation at ceremonies with a draft from a quaich.
The quaich is still popular today and can be employed at many occassions:
It is used at many Scottish weddings, offered to guests at the top table as a symbol of the shared love of the bride and groom; at christenings it is used to drink to the health of the new child and in celebration of new life; as a welcome or farewell cup by clan chiefs.
Commemorative quaichs, inscribed with a team motto can awarded as a prizes, or given as gifts, these are commonly made of pewter or silver.
Quaichs are popular for toasting an occassion from wedding anniversaries to new year.
Whether for ornament or use they make gorgeous presents, an can be engraved with a personal message.