Brooch, Luckenbooth
$46.00
Luckenbooth scarf or sash pin/brooch. Made of pewter in Scotland. Measures 1 1/4" (3cm) x 1.5" (4cm).
Luckenbooth Brooches are so called because they were sold from "locked booths" in the Royal Mile, adjacent to Saint Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh in the early 1700's, and were traditionally exchanged between lovers upon betrothal. They were subsequently pined to the baby's shawl "to protect it from evil spirits", and many have passed from generation to generation to become valuable heirlooms. Intertwining hearts, or inscribed phrases such as "of earthly joys thou art my choice" are evidence of their purpose: a surmounting crown symbolizing Mary Queen of Scots. They are probably the most romantic and lovely type of brooch in Scotland's history, hence their enduring appeal.