Living in Renaissance Scotland: the highs and lows

One of seven carved oak panels commissioned by Cardinal David Beaton, consisting of seven large carved panels and one large panel of bosses set in a vine scroll framework during the 1530s. (H.KL 222)

Galloway mazer of silver gilt with a maplewood bowl, by James Gray, Canongate, 1569, made for Archibald Stewart, later Provost of Edinburgh, and his wife, inherited by the Earls of Galloway. (H.MEQ 148)

Oval gold locket late 16th century, preserved by the Clerks of Penicuik as a relic of Mary, Queen of Scots. (H.NA.422)

Two handed steel sword, 16th century. (H.LA 6)

The Maiden, a guillotine of oak and metal, used for beheading criminals in Edinburgh, 1564 - 1710 AD. (H.MR. 1)