Drinking horn

Drinking horn

A drinking horn is a drinking vessel traditionally made from a bovid horn, primarily used in ancient times and often associated with Norse mythology and Viking culture. Drinking horns have been used across various cultures throughout history, including the Scandinavians, Germans, and the Celts. They are often depicted in ancient art and mentioned in mythology and sagas, symbolizing power, wealth, and feasting.

History

The use of drinking horns dates back to the Classical Antiquity, with evidence of their use in the Scythian culture and mentioned by ancient Greek and Roman authors. In Norse mythology, drinking horns are frequently mentioned, such as in the tale of the Mead of Poetry, where the mead is drunk from horns. The Vikings are perhaps the most well-known users of drinking horns, which were not only used for daily drinking but also in ceremonial contexts, such as oaths and sacrifices.

Manufacture

Traditionally, drinking horns are made from the horns of bovids, such as cattle or goats, with the tip of the horn serving as the point of the vessel and the wider part as the opening. The process of making a drinking horn involves cleaning the horn, shaping it, sometimes polishing it, and often sealing the interior with beeswax or other natural sealants to prevent leakage. Some drinking horns are elaborately decorated with metalwork, carvings, or inscriptions, reflecting the status of the owner or the significance of the horn in ritual practices.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, drinking horns were more than just practical items; they held significant symbolism and were integral to various rituals and ceremonies. For example, in Viking society, drinking horns were often used in feasting and were a common grave good, indicating their importance in both life and death. They could symbolize abundance, heroism, and the bond between comrades. Drinking horns are still used today in some cultures and by enthusiasts of historical reenactment, maintaining the connection to ancient traditions.

Modern Usage

Today, drinking horns are popular among enthusiasts of medieval history, reenactment groups, and in the practice of pagan religions such as Ásatrú. They are also used in weddings and festivals to evoke a sense of historical or cultural significance. Modern drinking horns may be authentic, crafted in the traditional manner, or more practical versions made from modern materials but designed to look like historical artifacts.

See Also

• Mead of Poetry
• Viking Age
• Norse mythology
• Feasting in Valhalla