Rebellion & Enlightenment

Postcard of 'Old Mortality'

Description:

Robert Paterson (1715 - 1801) travelled throughout lowland Scotland carving inscriptions for the unmarked graves of martyred Covenanters.  Walter Scott's novel 'Old Mortality' was based on his story and used Paterson's nickname as its title.  John Currie, a local sculptor, created old Mortality's likeness in red sandstone from Scott's description, and this shows him wearing a bonnet.

Source:

Dumfries Museum & Camera Obscura

Digital Number:

DMDO028n

Copyright:

Dumfries & Galloway Council