Kirkcudbright to show prized treasure from Galloway Hoard
A unique rock crystal jar will be on display for the first time.
A unique rock crystal jar found as part of the Galloway Hoard will go on public display for the first time later this year, near where it was found.
The Kirkcudbright Galleries will be showing it from November 8th, 2025.
The jar, which is approximately 5cm high, resembles an ornate perfume bottle with a gold inscription in Latin, revealing that Bishop Hyguald had it made.
Items from the collection have been touring the world since it was bought for the nation 8 years ago.
Dr Martin Goldberg from National Museums Scotland said: “The rock crystal jar is one of the highlight objects from the Galloway Hoard.
“From the beautiful rock crystal itself, originally carved in the form of a classical Corinthian column two thousand years ago, to the incredibly intricate gold decoration added hundreds of years later and including a clear inscription identifying its owner, this one object exemplifies the complex, connected and historic nature of the Galloway Hoard.
“The jar was the subject of international attention when we first revealed the inscription, and it’s great to be able to put it on display for the first time in Kirkcudbright.”
Councillor Maureen Johnstone, Chair of the Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee, said:
“We are excited to see this important and unique object in Kirkcudbright. Dumfries and Galloway Council is very proud of the ongoing partnership with National Museums Scotland, which has already produced two superb exhibitions at Kirkcudbright Galleries.
“I have no doubt the Rock Crystal Jar will be a fascinating exhibit. I am looking forward to it.”