As proud and noble as the historic Scottish clan from which it hails, this gleaming Antique Silverplate Drinks Tray was found at market in northern England and is a memento of the historic Murray-Buchanan Clan of Scotland. 

This elegant tray proudly sits slightly elevated on bun feet and is beautifully engraved at center with a lovely crest surrounded by a floral garland and topped with a furled bow and ribbon. The crest features a leafy Bilberry branch, the historic symbol of the Buchanan clan, and below it a banner is inscribed with the Latin phrase which is the motto of the Murray-Buchanan clan: Ex Bello Quies, which translates to "Rest from War" - which may just be the most fitting inscription for a drinks tray! 

Produced with attention to detail by England's William Hutton & Sons silversmiths of Sheffield, this lovely drinks tray is sure to take pride of place on your home bar or buffet carrying all the nobility of the mighty Highland clans of Scotland. 

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. In very good antique condition with only minor signs of age and use. 10.25"D.

Learn More About Scottish Clans

A Scottish clan is a group of people who are tied together by familial bonds or a strong sense of kinship. The word "clan" derives from the Gaelic "clann" or "clanna" which translates to "children". This title refers to the blood relationships which originally bonded clans. However, clan members weren’t always directly related. Many men became members of a clan by swearing allegiance to the chieftain in return for protection or work. For centuries, the clan system was the base of political order in Scotland. 

Scottish clans are thought to date back to the beginning of the 12th century. They seemed to develop as a way for the monarch to maintain order in the Scottish Highlands. This area had experienced much social unrest with northern rebellions, and fierce battles against Norsemen. As a result, powerful Celtic warlords rose to preside over local families in return for protection. These groupings evolved to form clans.

Scottish clans were the foundation of the political system in Scotland until the Battle of Culloden in 1746. At this battle, the Scottish Highland Army who wanted to see Charles Edward Stuart (or Bonnie Prince Charlie) on the British throne, suffered a bitter defeat. This blow brought an end to the war against the English troops and supporters of King George II.

To consolidate power, King George II introduced the Act of Proscription and the Heritable Jurisdictions Act. The first act forbade the playing of bagpipes, clan tartans and speaking Gaelic. The second removed the land authority of clan chieftains and reverted all ownership to the Crown. While these Acts were directed at the whole country, they were devastating to the Highland culture in particular. Scottish clans were forced to disperse with some relocating to America.

Despite Scottish clans losing their power, the strong sense of connection between members remains even to this day.