Handmade Viking Horn Spoon, Early Medieval Style

Handmade Viking Horn Spoon, Early Medieval Style

Appearance and Craftsmanship

This spoon is crafted from a single piece of carefully selected and processed ox horn. Its surface is hand-sanded and polished to a smooth sheen that is pleasant to the touch. The spoon's colouration is predominantly dark, almost black, with natural grain patterns and occasional lighter, amber-brown patches, especially concentrated in the bowl. This unique pattern makes every spoon a one-of-a-kind item. The handle is flat and ergonomically shaped for a comfortable grip.

• Total Length: approx. 15.5 cm (6.1 in)
• Bowl Length: 6 cm (2.4 in)
• Bowl Width: 2.7 cm (1.1 in)
• Handle Length: 9.5 cm (3.7 in)

Practical Use: Past and Present

Whether you are a reenactment enthusiast, a LARPer, or simply a lover of rustic style, this spoon is perfect for you. It's ideal for eating stews, porridge, soups, or desserts at medieval markets, feasts, or while camping. Thanks to its natural material, it is both lightweight and durable. Historically, horn spoons were a common part of personal equipment. Unlike expensive metal cutlery, they were affordable, light, and did not corrode. They were versatile eating utensils that their owners often carried with them at all times.

A Glimpse into History

Archaeological finds from Viking settlements such as Jorvik (modern-day York, England) and Birka in Sweden confirm that spoons made of bone and horn were commonplace in the 9th to 11th centuries. They often had a very simple, functional design, almost identical to our replica. These were everyday objects that demonstrate the ingenuity and ability of people at the time to make the most of available natural resources.

How to Care for Your Horn Spoon

To ensure your spoon serves you for as long as possible, please give it a little care.

• Hand wash only under lukewarm running water with a little mild soap.
• Dry it immediately with a soft cloth after washing.
• Never leave it to soak in water for extended periods.
• To maintain its lustre and suppleness, you can occasionally rub it with a food-safe oil (e.g., flaxseed oil).

What to Absolutely Avoid

Horn is a natural material and cannot withstand extreme treatment. You could permanently damage the spoon if you:

• wash it in a dishwasher,
• place it in a microwave oven,
• use it for boiling hot food and drinks.

Suitable Foods and What to Avoid

The spoon is ideal for cold and lukewarm dishes. You can safely enjoy porridge, stew, thick soup (not boiling), or yoghurt with it. However, you should avoid serving very hot or highly acidic foods (e.g., those with high vinegar or lemon juice content), which could damage the surface finish. This spoon is not intended for consuming beverages with an alcohol content above 20%.

Safety First

For your peace of mind and safety, the surface of the spoon is treated with a thin layer of resin lacquer that is certified food-safe. This ensures it is hygienic and also protects the material itself.