Hand of Glory has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
Gretna Green is one of the world's most popular wedding destinations,[citation needed] due to its romantic wedding traditions dating back over centuries, which originated from cross-border elopements stemming from differences between Scottish marriage laws and those in neighbouring countries.
However, this did not apply in Scotland, where it was possible for boys to marry at 14 and girls at 12 with or without parental consent. Scottish law allowed "irregular marriages", meaning that if a declaration was made before two witnesses, almost anybody had the authority to conduct the marriage ceremony. The blacksmiths in Gretna became known as "anvil priests" and the blacksmith and his anvil became lasting symbols of Gretna Green weddings.
Condition: There is general staining to the glaze, one small chip to the glaze at the inner rim and one tiny chip to the underside of the base.
Hand of Glory has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
Decorative antiques & interiors
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Hand of Glory Profile Page
Pearlware Gretna Green 'Anvil' Wedding Mug
