Chest of the Seven Incorporated Trades
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Object number11084
TitleChest of the Seven Incorporated Trades
Creator John Fisher, , Thomas. Christie (maker)
DescriptionThe Chest of the Seven Incorporated Trades has not one but seven locks, one for each of the main historic trades of Stirling. These are the Hammermen (who worked with metal, from gold to pewter and iron), Weavers, Tailors, Shoemakers, Fleshers (butchers), Skinners (who tanned skins for leather) and the Baxters (bakers).
This chest was made by John Fisher in 1829, replacing an older version. The decorative metal key plate on the front was taken from the previous chest and reused. It was made in 1759 by a well-respected gunsmith from Doune called John Christie. The symbols of the seven trades are engraved next to each name and a numbered keyhole. Look closely – can you see a hammer, shuttle, scissors, a cutting knife, meat cleaver, shears and a bread paddle?
Intriguingly, all seven keys were needed to open the chest. What was kept inside to merit that level of security? Apart from holding important documents relating to the Burgh trades, the chest was where the Blue Blanket of the Seven Trades was safely stored. If taken to the Cross and unfurled, it was the signal that all members of the Seven Trades had to arm themselves and rally there to defend the town.
The Blue Blanket is a thing of beauty, old and very fragile. It is made from fine silk and decorated with the Saltire - believed to have been designed and made by ladies at the court of Mary, Queen of Scots in the 16th century. Like the chest, it too is in the care of our museum collection.
Production placeStirling,
Production date 1829
Object nameChest
Materialmahogany