Around the World in Vintage: Glasgow, 18th century.
This month we venture to Glasgow to explore the gloomy castles of Scotland. Join us as we discover romantic legends that have been safe-kept within stone walls for hundreds of years. These castles are filled with the stories and myths of lovers, some living happily ever after and others star-crossed and ill-fated. Just as we have kept our memories and loved ones near in lockets of silver and gold for hundreds of years, these stories have been kept alive in the castles of Scotland’s lush green lands.
Searching far and wide, we found a harrowing story from the Scottish borders that tells of Janet, a young maiden who rescued her knight from the clutches of the Fairy Queen, turning him back into a man and living happily ever after. From the Traquair House comes the story of an Earl so lost in grief after the death of his wife, he closed the manor’s gates, vowing never to open them until he could find another lover to lift the grief of losing his wife. The gates have remained closed for the past 250 years.
Through the various legends of Scotland one thing is clear, that the stories and memories of those we love are precious keepsakes. Lockets have developed as a beautiful way to keep these memories safe. Originally carrying fragrant oils in the 15th to 17th century, lockets developed into mementos used to commemorate both union and separation.
Photograph by Christopher Gentile Photography. Styling assistance Leah Hamilton. Featured here lockets, lovers trinkets, and vintage photographs; all items from the gallery.