The quaigh or quaich (pronounced quake) is a shallow cup, usually carved from wood and with two handles. Some had a silver coin set in the base. It was used amongst Celtic peoples from earlies times to give visitors a welcome drink or a farewell dram, usually of whisky.
In the late 17th Century they became fashionable novelties when silversmiths began producing them in precious metals. Many were given as wedding presents. In these quaichs, the couples initials were inscribed on the handles whilst the clan crest or family emblem was set into the base.
The wooden quaich pictured above is exhibited at Inverness museum, Scotland, which holds several examples including a beautiful silver one.
Taken from A Book About Pub Names by Elaine Saunders. For a free extract, free articles and details of how to buy click here
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