Antique Sgian Dubh by MacKay & Chisholm Edinburgh
Antique sgian dubh by MacKay & Chisholm Edinburgh. Fine Scottish sgian dubh has a deep carved basket weave black wood handle and engraved hallmarked silver mounts. The end of the hilt is mounted with a cairngorm type stone. made by Mackay & Chisholm of Edinburgh with a sterling silver hallmark for 1911-12.
Antique Sgian Dubh by MacKay & Chisholm Edinburgh
The scabbard is covered with a brown leather and tooled with a fine diamond and dot pattern.Mackay & Chisholm Silversmith, Jewellers and Medal makers - Edinburgh. The firm was founded in 1835 ( 49 Newbuildings, Edinburgh). Active at 57 Princes Street (from 1879) and 59 Princes Street, Edinburgh ( from 1908 )We have a passion for fine antique and collectible sgian dubh’s and Highland dirks.
We source antique Jacobite styles of the 18th century, high Victorian styles and regimental patterns of WW1 – WW2. Our sgian dubh and dirk range make wonderful addition to any Highland dress collection. We also offer a range of antique and collectible Scottish provincial, sterling silver and Highland dress accoutrements to complete your outfit or add to your collection.
The Gaelic sgian dubh meaning “black knife”, where “black” may refer to the usual colour of the handle of the knife. It is also suggested that “black” means secret, or hidden, as in the word blackmail. This is based on the stories and theories surrounding the knife’s origin and the meaning of “Dubh” in Gaelic, in particular those associated with the Highland custom of depositing weapons at the entrance to a house prior to entering as a guest. Despite this practice, a small twin edged-dagger, (‘Mattucashlass’), concealed under the armpit, combined with a smaller knife, (‘Sgian dubh’).Our range of vintage and antique Scottish sgian dubhs is ever changing. For our current range of new hand crafted, antique and vintage sgian dubhs please visit the shop page.