Mauchline Tartan Ware Inkwell

Description of this Mauchline Tartan Ware inkwell:

• Material and Construction: The inkwell is a small wooden box covered in the iconic Mauchline Tartan Ware finish. It has a modified octagonal shape, with its lid designed to open upwards. The surface, typical of this ware, has a glossy, varnished appearance.
• Tartan Pattern: The entire exterior of the inkwell is decorated with a vibrant tartan pattern, predominantly featuring shades of red and green with intersecting black lines, creating a classic plaid design. The inkwell is marked “M’Duff”. This mark identifies the specific tartan pattern used, in this case, the MacDuff tartan.
• Central Motif on Lid: The top of the lid features a central, oval-shaped image depicting a couple in traditional attire. The figures appear somewhat stylized in a yellowish or sepia tone, suggesting an applied print or transfer under the varnish. Their clothing and stance are indicative of Scottish Highland dress.
• Opening Mechanism: There is a visible button on the front of the inkwell, just below the lid’s edge. This button is designed to be pushed, which would release a spring-loaded mechanism to open the lid, revealing the inkwell compartment inside.

The Couple Shown on the Lid

The couple depicted on the lid, given the “M’Duff” tartan and the historical context of Mauchline Ware, most likely represents Robert Burns and Highland Mary (Mary Campbell).

• Robert Burns (1759-1796): Scotland’s national poet, often referred to as the “Bard of Ayrshire.” His romantic poems and songs, many celebrating Scottish life and love, made him a beloved figure.
• Highland Mary (Mary Campbell): She was a young woman with whom Burns had a brief but intense romantic relationship in 1786. She is immortalized in several of his poems, most famously “To Mary in Heaven” and “Highland Mary.” Their story became a significant part of the Burns legend, embodying romantic and tragic love.
• Significance: Depictions of Burns and Highland Mary were incredibly popular motifs on Mauchline Ware, especially given that Mauchline itself is located in Ayrshire, Burns’s home county. These images catered to both a domestic Scottish market proud of its heritage and a burgeoning tourist market interested in Scottish history and romance.

Mauchline Ware refers to a distinctive type of wooden souvenir and utilitarian items produced primarily in the town of Mauchline, Ayrshire, Scotland, from the early 19th century until around the turn of the 20th century.

• Production: It was manufactured by several firms, most notably W. & A. Smith. The items were typically made from sycamore wood, which was then decorated using various techniques.
• Key Characteristics:
  • Tartan Decoration: The most famous type, like this inkwell, featured printed tartan patterns applied to the wood. These were created using a transfer printing process that allowed for the mass production of accurately depicted clan tartans.
  • Applied Views: Many pieces also featured small, black and white (or sepia-toned) transfer-printed scenes or portraits, often of Scottish landmarks, famous figures (like Robert Burns), or tourist attractions.
  • Varnished Finish: The wood and applied decoration were then sealed with a durable, clear varnish, giving the items their characteristic glossy, often slightly crackled appearance (as seen on the inkwell lid).
• Types of Items: Mauchline Ware encompassed a vast range of items, including desk accessories (like inkwells, pen holders, stamp boxes), sewing items (needle cases, thimble holders), snuff boxes, trinket boxes, spectacles cases, and small furniture.
• Popularity: It became extremely popular, particularly during the Victorian era, as tourism to Scotland grew. It provided affordable and attractive souvenirs that celebrated Scottish culture and heritage.
• Decline: The industry began to decline in the late 19th century due to changing tastes, the rise of cheaper manufacturing methods, and ultimately, a devastating fire at the W. & A. Smith factory in 1933, which largely ended its production.