MacDuff

Category

Library Item

Item no

13154

Title

MacDuff

Description

A man dressed in a plaid of the Macduff tartan is seen making his way up a hillside in pursuit of someone. He has taken off his hat and his sword is ready for use. His stockings are footless but are designed more for protecting the legs rather than as part of his dress.

Artist / maker

McIan, Robert Ronald

Engraver

Bosley, W.

Date

1845

Size

34.7 x 24.5 cm

Type

Lithograph

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

The accompanying text in 'The Clans of the Scottish Highlands' by James Logan begins as follows:
"MAC DHUBHICH, OR MAC DUFFS

This surname is one of the most ancient in Scotland, and the chief was among the first of those nobles who became distinguished by the Saxon title of Earl.
Dubh, the bh having the sound of f or v, is the term in Gaëlic descriptive of a black or dark coloured man, and all those who are of this clan refer to MacDuff, the powerful Thane of Fife, who overthrew MacBeth in 1056, as their common ancestor; but the first Thane was created anno 838. Several other tribes in different parts, who have long been distinguished and independent clans, are also sprung from these great Celtic dignitaries, as the family of MacIntosh and the noble house of Weems, who took the name from Eoin mòr na-h-Uamh, great John of the Cave, who flourished 1140."

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Related subjects

Clothing and dress > Accessories > Hosiery

Clothing and dress > Garments > Plaid

Clothing and dress > Textiles > Tartan

Military > Arms and armament > Daggers and swords

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