C-KP530 Lion Rampant
The Lion Rampant has been the symbol of Scottish Monarchs since at least the time of Alexander II and the 1220s. ‘Rampant’ is a heraldic term for a beast standing on its hind legs, with raised claws, poised ready to strike. It represents the courage, bravery and ferocity of the Scots.
Length 9cm.
C-KP531: Thistle
The thistle has been a national symbol of Scotland since at least the time of James III. As the Renaissance took hold of Scotland, the thistle became an important decorative motif throughout the country, coming to represent the picturesque and hardy qualities of the Scottish landscape and people.
Length 9cm.
C-KP533: St Andrew
St Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland. He was an apostle and was crucified on an X-shaped cross, as he did not deem himself worthy to be executed in the same way as Jesus. The relics of Andrew are said to have been collected by St Rule (or Regulus) and brought to Scotland, to the important religious centre now called St Andrews. A story goes that before King Oengus II led a Scottish and Pictish army to victory over the English in 832AD, a white cross was seen in the sky, and was taken as evidence of the intervention of Andrew in the Scottish triumph. This is said to be the origin of the Scottish Flag (the saltire) and Andrew being the kingdom’s patron saint.
Length 9cm.
C-KP507: Clergy
This lapel pin was designed for the use of clergymen and those associated with the Kirk of Scotland. It shows the Burning Bush from the Book of Exodus and the Latin motto NEC TAMEN CONSUMEBATUR ‘Yet it was not consumed’, which is the unofficial, but widely used, emblem for the Church of Scotland.
Length 9cm.
C-FKPBLN: Birlinn
The Western Isles were once glued together by little ships, the Birlinns. These were a long-lived adaptation of the old Viking longships, with the important addition of a rudder at the back. These were perfectly adapted for life in the west, being fast little vessels that could be rowed or sailed as the need demanded, and then light enough to be pulled ashore. Whether used for trade or war, these were the workhorses of the islanders. The Birlinn on this kilt pin is set upon a West Highland battle sword, which was shorter than the more famous longswords and Claymores of the mainland and was perfect for use at sea. Both sword and ship here are inspired by many carved examples that can be found on the rich corpus of graveslabs that survive in the west. Length 10cm.
C-FKP11A: Celtic Cross
Celtic Crosses were distinguished by their ‘nimbus’, a surrounding ring and were found throughout early medieval Britain, primarily those parts influenced by ‘Celtic Christianity’: Ireland, Scotland, Northumbria, Wales, Cornwall and the West Country. Usually finished in Antique Silver, also available in plain pewter. Length 98mm.
C-FKPGROUA: Grouse Claw
One of the odder traditions of Scotland. In the Victorian period men would pin grouse claws to their kilts for good luck during hunting trips. Over time they became more embellished, gaining gemstones and decorative silverwork gaining widespread appeal as a fashion item. Known as a ‘ptarmigan’, they also became love tokens for lovers apart. Enjoy this tradition without resorting to animal cruelty and grizzly taxidermy with this premium quality hand finished pewter kilt pin. Stone Options: Onyx, Amethyst, Ruby, Topaz, Sapphire, Emerald. Antique Silver plated finish. Length 85mm.
C-FKPHW02 King Death
The death-head represents the universality of death, how the reaper is no respecter of pomp or power, all earthy kings will kneel before him some day. Given the seventeenth-century Scottish Presbyterians had something of a disdain for the ambitions of the Stuart kings and the vanity of the court, they were especially keen on this symbol. Size 96mm long, 20mm wide.