Communion Beaker made by Alexander Galloway

Images(5)

Communion Beaker

SilversmithMade by Alexander Galloway (Scotland, active 1671 - 1680)

Datec.1671-1678

Object NameCup

Mediumsilver

ClassificationsApplied Art

DimensionsHeight: 14.5 cm, width (rim): 11.4cm, width (foot): 8.2 cm
Weight: 323.8g

AcquisitionPurchased in 2009 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions, The Art Fund and the Friends of Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums.

CopyrightOut of copyright

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG011363

Keywords

About MeThis pair of early Communion Beakers by Alexander Galloway dates to around 1671-78.
Both are engraved with stylised birds and a dedicatory inscription. They are also inscribed the initials ‘M’ over ‘AS’ for Alexander Skene, minister of the Parish of Turriff from 1666-78.
The cups were presented to Turriff Parish Church by Isobel Mowatt, Lady Balquhollie for use in the sacrament of communion. After the Reformation all parish churches were required to have sufficient vessels to administer the sacrament to the whole congregation. Many local landed families gifted cups for this purpose to their parish church.