Mauchline ware pin cushion

Small circular wooden pin cushion comprised of two curved discs, with a band of velvet running through the middle.  The black transfer on top depicts cross axes, with thistle, rose and shamrock motif, and the inscription "MADE FROM TREE FELLED BY THE RIGHT HON W. E. GLADSTONE".  The base of the pin cushion has a copy of Gladstone's signature.   W & A Smith of Mauchline, Ayrshire developed the manufacture of transfer printed treen, or wooden ware which became highly popular as gifts and souvenirs. Later, they used photographs instead of transfers.