Description
Midsummer marks the turning of the sun at its highest point in the sky, a time when the long days of summer are celebrated with great fervor across the Germanic lands. Around June 20th or 21st, families and communities gather to honor this sacred day with blazing bonfires, heartfelt speeches, lively songs, and spirited dances. The maypole stands tall, a symbol of life and fertility, while tables groan under the weight of rich foods and hearty drinks.
A drinking vessel such as this horn tankard would have been a prized companion during these revelries, often filled with sweet mead or frothy ale. Crafted from natural horn and stained a warm butterscotch hue, the tankard carries the marks of its organic origin,each one shaped by the hand of a smith who respects the material’s character. Four slender bands are carefully carved around its center, adding a subtle touch of decoration without overshadowing the horn’s natural beauty. The flat bottom and sturdy handle, also fashioned from horn, provide balance and grip for spirited toasts.
When caring for a horn tankard like this, it is best to wash it gently with mild soap and warm water, avoiding harsh detergents that might dry the material. Regularly rubbing the surface with vegetable oil helps keep the horn supple, while occasional applications of beeswax to the inside protect against cracking and dryness. Remember, every piece is unique, bearing natural variations that speak to its origin from the living world.
Specifications
Material: Horn
Cup Height: 5-7 Inches
Handle Size: Approximately 5.50 Inches
Cup Opening: Approximately 3 Inches (Varies)
Space Between Handle: 1.5 Inches
Estimated Capacity: 22-26 oz
Features
Design: Four Carved Bands
Natural Horn with a Butterscotch Stain
Handcrafted
Fun fact: Vikings often raised their horn tankards high during Midsummer celebrations to honor the sun’s strength and toasting to good fortune in the coming harvest.
