Kilt Pin - King Death

Befitting such a grim year, our Autumn 2020 range of kilt pins, which were released just in time for Hallowe’en, celebrate the wonderful and unique Scottish art found on seventeenth century tombs. From the early 1600s Scots would increasingly have carved icons added to their tombstones, to convey certain messages about either themselves or the need to live a good life.

In early modern Europe ‘King Death’ was a personify of human mortality in literature and art. In these depictions, death was portrayed as a regal figure, often shown as a skeletal figure wearing a crown, symbolizing its authority over life. The personification of death as a king served to emphasize the universality of death – it is a fate that awaits all individuals, regardless of their social status, wealth, or power. The reaper is no respecter of pomp or power, all earthy kings will kneel before him some day. Given the seventeenth-century Scottish Presbyterians had something of a disdain for the ambitions of the Stuart kings and the vanity of the court, they were especially keen on this symbol.

This theme often played a role in encouraging reflection on the transient nature of human existence and the importance of leading a virtuous life and to make the most of things.

Set upon a traditional Highland Dirk.

Premium quality kilt pin. 100% lead-free pewter, completely designed, cast and finished in our Glasgow workshop. Size 96mm long, 20mm wide.

Stand out with this statement kilt pin, that celebrates the depths of Scottish art. Read more about the art behind our kirkyard range here.