Viking Drinking Horn with Valknut, 400–500 ml

Viking Drinking Horn with Valknut, 400–500 ml

Authentic Look and Robust Craftsmanship

This magnificent Viking horn captures the eye instantly. Its surface is perfectly polished and shiny. The prevailing colour is dark, almost black, interwoven with lighter, marbled streaks in shades of brown, grey, and cream. The striking Valknut symbol is precisely engraved into the horn and filled with white colour, making it an unmissable feature. The top rim and the tip of the horn are fitted with solid brass fittings featuring an intricate, embossed pattern. The horn has a visually robust and high-quality appearance.

Why Own a Drinking Horn?

A true Viking drinking vessel is not just a replica of a historical item; it’s a piece of history that’s perfect for enlivening LARP events, historical re-enactments, or themed parties. Enjoy your favourite beverage like a true warrior. The horn can also serve as a stylish decorative item for a home bar or as an original gift for all lovers of Norse and Nordic mythology.

History and Symbolism: A Vessel for Heroes

Drinking horns have a long and rich tradition in European history, dating back to antiquity. They were a popular ritual and festive object among the Celts, Germanic peoples, and especially the Norsemen. They were used for drinking beer and mead at feasts and celebrations, where they served for toasts and rituals. Holding a horn in your hand symbolised honour and status, and they were often richly decorated.

The Valknut – Knot of the Slain

The Valknut symbol, consisting of three interlocked triangles, is one of the most well-known symbols of Norse mythology. Its name in modern Norwegian means "knot of the slain". It appears on various items from archaeological records, often in connection with the Norse god Odin and the afterlife. Many historians and scholars believe that the Valknut symbolises Odin’s power to bind and unbind the minds of warriors in battle, as well as his ability to lead fallen heroes to Valhalla.

Caring for Your Drinking Horn

To ensure your horn serves you well for a long time and remains undamaged, it is necessary to care for it properly.

• Before the first use and after each subsequent use, always wash it with lukewarm water and a soft brush.
• The inside of the horn is treated with a food-safe resin lacquer to prevent the absorption of liquids.
• It is advisable to wipe the inside dry after each use.
• To maintain the shine and extend the life of the outer surface, it is recommended to occasionally treat the horn with beeswax.

Warning: As this is a natural product, it is important to avoid the following treatments, which could irreversibly damage the horn:

• Never wash the horn in a dishwasher.
• Never heat it in a microwave oven.
• Do not use it for hot beverages, as this could damage the protective layer inside the horn.
• Avoid liquids with an alcohol content above 20%. Ideal beverages are beer, mead, wine, water, and not overly acidic non-alcoholic drinks.

Remember that natural materials age. Over time, due to regular use and temperature changes, the horn may crack. However, proper care will significantly extend its lifespan.