Exhibit of Mary, Queen of Scots' Silver Casket

A pure silver casket, measuring just 11x21x14cm, believed to have been owned by Mary, Queen of Scots and which was acquired by National Museums Scotland in 2022, sits in lone splendour on the upper floor of Kirkcudbright Galleries. The purpose designed display includes images of artworks from the Royal Collection Trust, the National Galleries of Scotland, East Ayrshire Council and National Museums Scotland, all telling the story of Mary during her early life in France and Scotland when she is believed to have possessed the casket.

It is thought that the casket was given to Mary by her first husband, François II of France, and came to Scotland with her in 1561 after his death in 1560. Her inventories from this time list multiple examples of precious jewellery and other such valuable objects.

The casket is on display at Kirkcudbright Galleries from 2 November 2024 - 27 April 2025 supported by the Weston Loan Programme with Art Fund. It is open Tuesday-Saturday 10- 3.30, Sunday 11.30-3.30 and entry is free. See website for Christmas opening hours.