Small modern silver quaich

A classic silver quaich decorated with an applied band of Celtic weave pattern interspersed with bead circular medallions within each is a Celtic cross. The lugs have Celtic dragons entwined on the top, and mottled finish underneath.

Originating in the Scottish Highlands centuries ago, a quaich - or cuach in the Gaelic - is a traditional Scottish shallow drinking cup with two or three handles known as lugs, a 19th century Scottish word for ears. It is also known as the Scottish loving cup or cup of friendship, with whisky being a quaich's most welcome partner.

Over time the quaich became the favourite drinking cup throughout Scotland, originally made from wood or horn. In the seventeenth century, silver, brass or pewter quaichs started to appear - making the cups fancy enough to be used among the fashionable upper classes of Edinburgh and Glasgow.