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We have reproduced this antique brooch in fine Pewter and are offering it for the first time on eBay in 2002. The name of this type brooch is a Luckenbooth. This pin is perfect to pin a shawl or scarf. This is a large, well made piece of hand crafted pewter. It was hand cast in solid, lead-free, jeweler's pewter. the pin is 1 1/2" X 2". There is a great amount of detail in this brooch which makes this very decorative and traditional looking. The findings are hand soldered and the finish on this piece makes it look antique. One story relates that the Luckenbooth brooches are so called because they were sold from locked booths in the Royal Mile, adjacent to St. Giles Cathedral Edinburgh. This type of love token seems to go back to at least the 1600s. Luckenbooths were traditionally exchanged between lovers on betrothal. They were sometimes pinned to the shawl of the first baby to protect it from evil spirits. There are many surviving antique brooches of this type in museums in Scotland. Some of these were made by traveling tinkers and sold to gentlemen for their ladies. Some have passed from generation to generation to become valuable heirlooms. Sometimes inscribed phrases such as " Of earthly joys thou art my choice." are evidence of their purpose. They are probably the most romantic type of brooch in Scotland's history, hence their enduring appeal. This type brooch even came to America and simple forms of this brooch were cut from coins and used for trade among the Eastern Woodland Indians. Many people know about the traditional Claddagh ring of Ireland with its crowned heart but fewer know of this wonderful traditional love token. If you do historical re enacting or just love to enjoy Scottish traditions, this is a perfect piece to purchase for yourself or a loved one.
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