quaich

Pronounced "quake," (with an additional 'ich' on the end, so say my scottish friends), the quaich is a traditional Scottish whisky cup, also known as the 'friendship' cup and used ceremonially to pay the piper, toast weddings, etc.  I've been 'paid' many times with beautiful pewter or silver quaichs and was inspired to create my own when I was just learning about pottery while attending an artist retreat.

Originally carved of wood, but since the 17th century they have been primarily produced in pewter and silver.  The quaich gained its reputation as the friendship cup due to its unique two-handled design that one drinking from it, can't hold a weapon at the same time and the sharing with another proves there is no poison. In wedding ceremonies, they are shared by the parents and bride and groom before the service or perhaps, at the end of the ceremony by the newlyweds to seal the deal. I have been throwing these wee bowls and hand-building the lugs for a similar look of the traditional form, while adding my own designs for a personal feel. The various glaze techniques and carvings all play in the production of these delightful clay works.

I don't think of myself as a potter, but I love to play with clay! Commissions are fun to create and welcomed! Custom ceramic quaichs built to your specifications and design ideas, a distinct possibility. Great gifts! Or choose one of these you like and I'll make you one close to it.

or come make your own quaich (2 session commitment) $125 in my studio located inside Art in the Dairy.  7701 Tuckaseegee Rd.  Charlotte, NC 28214  call for appointment 704.332.6175

To see colonial style redware and more, click here.