Viking Drinking Horn with Ornate Brass Fittings, 0.5 L

Viking Drinking Horn with Ornate Brass Fittings, 0.5 L

Majestic Appearance and Precision Craftsmanship

This drinking horn captivates at first glance with its gracefully curved shape and perfectly polished surface. As it is a natural material, each piece is a complete original. The colour transitions range from a deep ebony black to smoky grey and milky white tones, creating a unique pattern. The horn consists of two main parts:

• The Horn Body: Made from authentic, ethically sourced ox horn. Its capacity is approximately 500 ml (16.9 oz), and its length varies between 30–40 cm (12–16 inches).
• Brass Fittings: The rim of the horn features a wide, hand-embossed brass band with a relief motif of intertwined vines or knotwork. The tip of the horn is finished with a conical brass fitting, complete with a small decorative ball. The golden sheen of the brass contrasts beautifully with the darker horn.

A Sip of History

Drinking horns were by no means exclusive to the Vikings. Ancient Thracians, Celts, and Germanic tribes across Europe used them as drinking vessels for thousands of years. They were a symbol of status and abundance, used during important ceremonies, ritual toasts, and celebrations. A historical tidbit: One of the most famous depictions of drinking horns in action can be found on the renowned Bayeux Tapestry, which chronicles the events leading up to the Battle of Hastings in 1066. On it, Norman and Anglo-Saxon warriors are shown toasting with horns during a feast before the decisive clash.

How to Care for Your Horn

To ensure your drinking horn serves you faithfully for years to come, please give it the proper care. The inside of the horn is sealed with a food-safe certified resin lacquer to protect and waterproof it.

What to Do:

• Before the first use, and after every subsequent use, wash it by hand in lukewarm water.
• Use it for cool or lukewarm beverages (ale, mead, wine).
• To extend its life, you can occasionally treat the outside with a light coating of beeswax.

What to Avoid:

• Never pour hot beverages into the horn! This could cause it to warp and damage the lacquer.
• Never wash it in a dishwasher. The harsh detergents and high heat will destroy it.
• It is not suitable for liquids with an alcohol content of over 20% ABV.
• Remember, this is a natural product that may develop minor cracks over time due to changes in temperature and humidity.