Named after a town in Scotland where they were mostly made, Mauchline ware was highly collectible. They were generally functional items like needle cases, thimble cases, snuff boxes, match holders, and rulers. Typically, they were bought as souvenirs and depicted a local landmark.
In this case, our Mauchline ware was crafted in the shape of an egg and includes an image of Seymour Street Wesleyan Methodist Church. Upon opening in 1875, the church’s architecture and location made it one of Lisburn’s most iconic buildings.
The hollow treen or wooden eggs were normally used for storing sewing accessories, but the inclusion of a globe was unusual. Could it indicate a connection to Methodist missions? The denomination was well known for its active commitment to missionary causes.
You can see the egg on display at our exhibition, Seymour Street 150: Methodism in Lisburn.