An elaborate gold locket with pearls around one of its edges. It is open to reveal a portrait of a woman and of a boy.
Scottish History & Archaeology

Renaissance and Early Modern History

Our Renaissance and Early Modern collections contain objects relating to Scottish history from c.1450-1750.

This period encompasses the cultural developments of the Scottish Renaissance, the Protestant Reformation, and the seismic events of the Union of the Crowns, the Covenanting Revolution, the Anglo-Scottish Union of 1707 and the Jacobite Rebellions of 1715 and 1745.

Collections include decorative arts, jewellery, metalwork, furniture and weaponry, and objects relating to monarchical power, religion, trade and everyday life. Many of our objects were made in Scotland, but others were not, material evidence of the connections between Scotland, Europe and further afield.

Most notable are iconic pieces related to Mary, Queen of Scots, the Stewart kings, the Darien Venture, and the Jacobites. Star items include the Penicuik Jewels associated with Mary, a sword, targe and travelling canteen belonging to Prince Charles Edward Stuart, the awe-inspiring execution device, the Maiden, and the Company of Scotland’s large iron-bound chest related to the Darien Venture, the financially disastrous colonial scheme.

Meet the team

Renaissance and Early Modern History stories

  1. Oval locket of gold and a gold and pearl pendant which was probably formerly attached to the locket

    True or False: Objects associated with Mary, Queen of Scots

    History and cultures, Scotland

    The life and death of Mary, Queen of Scots has given rise to countless legends over the years. Many places and objects acquire a new glamour through their association with her - genuine or otherwise. In our collection we have many items…
    Long read
  2. A black oval shaped tortoiseshell oval box with white ridge set against the black background. A white portrait of a woman wearing a curly shoulder length wig, dressed in a white jacket with golden brooch.

    Flora MacDonald: An unlikely Jacobite heroine

    History and cultures, Scotland

    Flora MacDonald famously helped Charles Edward Stuart escape Scotland after the 1745 rising was crushed. A silver snuffbox, a treasured heirloom of her clan, links the romantic pair. 
    Long read
  3. Detail of a marble tomb, showing a female head with ruffle collar.

    The life, death, and legacy of Mary, Queen of Scots

    History and cultures, Scotland

    Arguably the most famous and controversial figure in Scottish history, Mary Stewart has become something of an enigma. Intrigue and romance have often obscured the hard facts of her life and reign.
    Short read