What are these objects?

Two of the most highly prized objects from the collections of National Museums Scotland – a broadsword and targe (shield), gifted to Prince Charles Edward Stuart from James Drummond, the 3rd Duke of Perth.

We also look in this short film at a portrait of James VIII and III by Martin van Meytens (1695-1770), a Dutch-Swedish portrait painter who painted members of the European Royal Courts. We are showing this portrait of James VIII and III from the Drambuie Collection, with kind permission of William Grant and Sons Ltd.

Who made them – where?

The silver sword bears the mark of Charles Frederick Kandler, a silversmith who worked closely with Jernegan.

The targe was almost certainly constructed in Scotland – the knowledge and skills to make such an object would not have existed elsewhere.

Why are these important?

These are objects of considerable aesthetic beauty but also political significance, demonstrating loyalty and allegiance to the exiled Stuart princes.

The symbolism on the objects that represents the Jacobite cause, is highly significant – and seditious.

Meyten’s portrait of James also includes symbolism, such as a ‘Medusa’ around his neck and the green ribbon of the Most Ancient and Noble Order of the Thistle. We learnt about the significance of this Order in Week 1, when Lyndsay McGill talked about the collar of the Order of the Thistle.

Watch this short film as David explores the covert messages in these objects.