Lot 14
A Victorian clan gathering brooch
Auction: 13 February 2008 at 11:00 GMT
Description
by MacKay & Chisolm Edinburgh, marked MACKAY & / CHISOLM in tablet punch, of annular form with incised scroll decoration with niello enamel border, with applied armorial of the MacGregor family, engraved to reverse 'MacGregor Brooch 1884'
Dimensions
4.8cm diameter
Footnote
Notes: While this design is a known type, the reason of manufacture is still unknown, but is safe to assume for a large clan gathering or event. It is interesting to note that all recorded (dated) examples have been inscribed 1884 and called 'MacGregor Brooch'. While not all are marked, the only recorded makers of these pieces are MacKay and Chisolm. Of the two known types both are identical, except the addition of niello enamel to some, the type represented here is the scarcer.
The arms are that of MacGregor of MacGregor of Lanrick and Balquhidder, baronetcy created 1795, Chief of clan Gregor