The Revival of Scottish Tartan: A Journey Through History

Unveiling the Oldest Scottish Tartan

In a remarkable collaboration, textile designers and tartan experts have embarked on a journey to recreate the oldest piece of Scottish tartan for modern production, allowing enthusiasts of the famed plaid to embrace a piece of history.

Through the use of carbon dating, scientists unveiled the 'Glen Affric' fabric, which was discovered in a peat bog in the Highlands during forestry work and later donated to the Scottish Tartans Authority in the 1980s. The fabric was found to date back to the 16th century, making it the oldest 'true tartan' specimen in Scotland. This remarkable discovery has sparked a resurgence of interest in the ancient art of tartan weaving and design.

The 'Glen Affric' fabric, although stained by the peat, revealed intricate green and brown or black stripes overlaid on one or two colors. Dye analysis further uncovered the presence of red and yellow, adding to the complexity and beauty of the historic piece. This unparalleled find has redefined the understanding of tartan history and its significance in Scottish heritage.

Recreating History for the Modern Wardrobe

The pattern of the ancient 'Glen Affric' tartan has been meticulously recreated for the modern wardrobe by the esteemed tartan fabric creator and weaver, House of Edgar. This ambitious undertaking involved collaboration with experts from the Scottish Tartans Authority, dedicated to preserving and promoting the origins, history, and development of tartan fabric.

Drawing from the dye analysis and pattern extraction from the original material, the teams diligently worked to maintain the authenticity of the pattern and colors while refining the shades to align with contemporary fashion. Peter Eslea MacDonald, head of research and collections at the Scottish Tartans Authority, emphasized the significance of this endeavor, stating that the recreated tartan reflects the essence of the 16th-century design while resonating with modern sensibilities.

Emma Wilkinson, designer at House of Edgar, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, describing it as a 'real privilege' to collaborate with experts in resurrecting the ancient tartan. The recreated 'Glen Affric' tartan is set to be featured in the company’s new collection, 'The Seventeen Eighty Three Collection,' and will be made available for purchase, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to adorn themselves with a timeless piece of Scottish heritage.

The Legacy of Glen Affric Tartan

The original 'Glen Affric' fabric is believed to have been a status symbol, likely belonging to an esteemed individual of wealth and rank. It is speculated to have been worn as a shawl or an upper body wrap, signifying its significance as a coveted and prestigious garment during the 16th century.

The revival of the 'Glen Affric' tartan serves as a testament to the enduring allure and cultural significance of Scottish tartan. As this historic pattern is reintroduced to the world, it offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Scottish heritage and the timeless artistry of tartan design. Enthusiasts are encouraged to explore the recreated 'Glen Affric' tartan, available at kilt shops in Scotland and worldwide, and embrace the legacy of this remarkable piece of history.