Scottish Bicker - Paisley

A very interesting early 19th Century Scottish Bicker. Oak with yew banding silver rim top and bottom inscribed on one side Made from the Wallace Oak of Elderslie Wood of the house in which Alexander Wilson was born and Queen Marys Yew. To the other side presented to Mr John Mack, as a mark of respect by the Club Paisley 19th June 1834. We have carried out some research on the bicker and think the Club may refer to the Burns Club. The Club have a number of similar items in their collection. The only John Mack we were able to trace was a wine and spirit merchant in Paisley. Perhaps he supplied the club with their wine. Written on the yew base of the Bicker in Indian ink is a verse, sadly only been able to read some of it. The handles are both made of horn and the silver is hallmarked for Glasgow 1833, Makers Mark Peter Aitkin. It is in great condition, two of the staves have opened up but this is to be expected due to its age and construction.