It dates back to the 1400s, bears valuable Royal signatures and is a memento of Perth’s ancient traders. The Lockit Book, which lists members of the city’s trade associations, will be shared at an exclusive talk on August 7 at Perth Museum and Art Gallery.
The ancient book – which bears signatures from King James VI up to the present Queen – made headlines five years ago after it was shared on an episode of BBC TV’s Antiques Roadshow at Scone Palace. An expert valued the book at £100,000.
At the museum talk, Lord Dean Neil Dewar and Perth Guild’s Secretary Carla Murray will share the Lockit Book and use it to provide a snapshot of medieval life in Perth. The book is so-called because it was once locked to prevent anyone falsely entering their names in the book and thus falsely trading without a proper license.
The talk, put on by The Guildry Incorporation of Perth, is part of a free summer exhibition, By Hammer and Hand, celebrating Perth’s merchants and craftspeople.
Rhona Rodger, Senior Officer, Collection Management with Culture Perth and Kinross, which runs the region’s museums and galleries, said:
“The Lockit Book is the earliest surviving record of guilds in Perth and gives a unique insight into the city’s medieval era. That’s why we know this free talk will be fascinating for visitors of all ages.
“Perth’s merchants formed the backbone of the city’s economy as well as its administration. The By Hammer and Hand exhibition attempts to probe deeper into the lives of the merchants and sharing the Lockit Book is an important part of that.”
What: The Guildry Incorporation of Perth Talk
Where: Perth Museum and Art Gallery, 78 George Street, Perth PH1 5LB
When: 1pm to 2pm, Tuesday, August 7, 2018
Tickets: Free but booking is essential. Click here to book. Suitable for all ages.
More information: 01738 632488 or [email protected]
By Hammer and Hand runs until September 30 at Perth Museum and Art Gallery and is also free.
For more information on Culture Perth and Kinross visit www.culturepk.org.uk/whats-on/