Leather hand-guard belonging to John Davidson, the inspiration for Souter Johnie

Description

Mid-eighteenth century back leather hand-guard belonging to John Davidson, the inspiration for Souter Johnie. Davidson likely used this hand-guard to protect his hand while stitching.

Souter Johnie was the drinking companion of Tam O`Shanter and was based on a acquaintance of the Poet. John Davidson (1728-1806) was a shoemaker and was the prototype for the character in the poem. He resided at Glenfoot of Ardlochan, near Maidens and often visited the market in Ayr.