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Viking drinking horn and horn jugs for mead and more

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Whether at a medieval market, a LARP event or a cosy mead evening at home – a drinking horn made from real horn combines historical heritage with a drinking experience that no glass in the world can match. Here you’ll find drinking horns, horn mugs, mead horns and matching accessories, ranging from small 0.35-litre horns to 3.5-litre showpieces.

What is a drinking horn – and what does history tell us?

Was ist ein Trinkhorn – und was sagt die Geschichte?

The term ‘drinking horn’ refers to a drinking vessel made from the horn of a cow, buffalo or other ungulate – one of the oldest drinking vessels in human history. The word ‘mead horn’ is simply the common term for a drinking horn used specifically for mead – the honey wine of the Nordic world. Both terms refer to the same object; ‘mead horn’ merely emphasises its intended use.

Archaeological grave finds from the Viking Age and the Migration Period clearly demonstrate that drinking horns did indeed exist and were used – though not as ordinary everyday tableware. Decorated ceremonial horns were found as valuable grave goods, indicating a ritual and symbolic significance. Everyday life was different: clay was the material of choice. Ceramic cups and clay jugs stood on every table, were easy to put down and were simply more practical. The drinking horn held a different status – it was a sign of prestige, hospitality and ceremonial drinking.

Historical context: Vikings, Germanic peoples and the drinking horn

4th–6th centuries

Migration Period

First documented ceremonial horns as grave goods among Germanic tribes. Horns as status symbols at festivals and rituals.

c. 5th century

Golden horns from Gallehus

Two richly decorated gold horns from Denmark – not drinking vessels in the strict sense, but the best-known symbol of the significance of the horn in Nordic culture. Early archaeological evidence of the horn as an object of prestige.

8th–11th centuries

Viking Age

Drinking horns made from cattle and buffalo horn as ritual objects at festivals, feasts and funerals. Everyday tableware made of clay and wood – the horn remained a status symbol. Vikings did indeed drink from horns, but not on a daily basis.

In response to the frequent question of which horns the Vikings used: mainly cattle horn, less commonly buffalo horn. Both materials are still used today for drinking horns – as by-products of meat production, not as specially crafted hunting trophies. Another widespread misconception: horned Viking helmets did not exist in everyday life – that is a later Romantic invention. The situation is different with drinking horns: here, the historical record is clear.

Care and cleaning: How to keep your drinking horn in good condition

Rinse your drinking horn with lukewarm water immediately after use. A small amount of mild washing-up liquid is permitted – aggressive cleaning agents, bleach or hot lye can damage the internal seal. Never put it in the dishwasher – the combination of heat, pressure and aggressive tablets will reliably destroy the horn and the seal.

Dry thoroughly after cleaning – ideally with the opening facing downwards on a clean cloth or hung up so that any remaining moisture can drain away. Standing water inside encourages mould and odours. Store in a dry, well-ventilated place, not in closed, damp containers.

Horn is a natural material and can become brittle and crack if stored in excessively dry conditions. Occasionally rubbing the exterior with linseed oil or a special horn care product keeps the material supple. The interior sealant itself should not be oiled – careful cleaning and drying is sufficient here.

Every drinking horn is a natural product and therefore unique. Colour variations, slight differences in size and individual grain patterns are not a sign of poor quality – they are the very nature of the material. Those expecting a perfectly uniform product would be better off with a glass; those who appreciate character will love the horn.

Decorations and engravings: From a simple horn to a personalised piece

Polished & Plain

Pure nature

The natural grain of the horn takes centre stage. Highly polished, the surface shimmers in warm brown and cream tones – no two horns are alike. Ideal for anyone who prefers authentic materials over elaborate decoration.

Nordic symbols

Vegvisir, Thor’s Hammer, Yggdrasil

Engraved or hand-carved symbols from Norse mythology lend the horn a mystical character. Popular choices include Vegvisir (the Viking compass), Mjölnir (Thor’s hammer) and the World Tree Yggdrasil – all historically rooted in Scandinavian tradition.

Patterns & Carvings

Knot patterns, scales, honeycomb

Celtic knot patterns, scale patterns or honeycomb structures are carved by hand into the horn – more labour-intensive than engravings, but visually striking and impressive to the touch. Dark or antique-coloured variants are also available, making the horn stand out from the crowd.

Drinking horns with a stand and matching leather holder are also offered as sets – a thoughtful gift idea for mead lovers who do not yet own their own horn. The Viking symbolism is more than just decoration: symbols such as the Aegishjalmur (Helmet of Awe) had an apotropaic meaning in Nordic tradition – they were intended to provide protection.

Material and finish: What drinking horns are really made of

Material Suitability Special feature
Cattle horn Historical Classic material, warm brown tones, lighter than buffalo horn, polishes well
Buffalo horn Historical Darker shades, often thicker walls, intense natural grain
Food-safe interior sealant Mandatory Internal varnish or sealant – essential for safe drinking
Brass accents Decor Brass fittings, mouthpieces or feet for an elegant look
Leather Accessories Leather holders, belt attachments and covers

Horn is, by definition, a by-product of meat production – no animal is kept or slaughtered specifically for drinking horns. Production involves a complex process: the horn is boiled to remove organic residues, then cleaned, sanded on the outside and polished. The crucial step is the food-safe internal sealing – without it, the drinking horn would be decorative but unsuitable for drinking. When buying, you should make sure that this sealing is present.

Sizes and capacities: From 0.35 litres to 3.5 litres

Schnapps horn · approx. 0.35–0.5 litres · from approx. €10

The small horn for on the go – ideal for herbal wine, schnapps or a first sip of mead. Fits easily into a belt holder and hardly gets in the way when walking through the market. Beginner-friendly price, a solid introduction to the subject.

Medium horn · approx. 0.75–1.25 litres · approx. €18–35

The classic choice for medieval markets and LARP events. Holds enough mead or beer for a decent round, yet is still handy enough for your pack. The most popular size in the range.

Ceremonial horn · approx. 2–3.5 litres · approx. €58–104

For a large gathering around the campfire or as an eye-catcher on the table. The 3.5-litre horn made from polished cattle horn is the showpiece of the range – not for everyday use, but unforgettable at feasts, themed evenings or as a collector’s item. Natural variations in size are typical of this type of production.

Drinking horn stands and holders: the perfect accessories

Trinkhornständer und Halter: Das passende Zubehör

The classic drinking horn has an elegant curve – and that is precisely the problem: it cannot simply be placed on the table without tipping over or spilling. The solution lies in the right accessories.

Forged iron stands are available in two sizes: the small stand (from approx. €10.92) is designed for horns with a capacity of 0.2 to 0.3 litres, the large one for more voluminous examples. Both are hand-forged and complement a rustic table setting. Those who prefer something more elaborate can opt for a wooden stand in the shape of a wolf – hand-carved, available in brown or black, a real eye-catcher for any banquet table (from approx. €58).

For when you’re out and about – say, at a medieval market or a LARP event – a leather belt holder is recommended: the horn hangs from your Viking belt, leaving your hands free. Belt holders start at around €11. The combination of horn, stand and belt holder is also available as a set – a well-coordinated basic kit for your first visit to the market.

Drinking horn, horn jug or horn cup – which type suits you?

Classic drinking horn
  • Curved shape made from natural horn
  • Historically documented as a ritual object
  • Requires a stand or holder for storage
  • Capacity 0.35 to 3.5 litres
  • A striking visual statement
Horn jug & horn cup
  • Can be stood upright – no accessories required
  • Modern interpretation with a rustic look
  • Horn jug: historically unproven, practical
  • Horn cup: small size, suitable for everyday use
  • Buffalo horn beer mug from approx. €29

The horn jug – such as the rustic beer mug made from buffalo horn – is crafted using modern shaping techniques and can stand upright on the table without a stand. Practical, visually appealing, but not historically documented. For those who mean business: the classic horn is the original, the mug the convenient alternative. For Viking costumes at re-enactments, the classic horn is the more authentic choice; for the pub table or the camp at home, the horn mug is hard to beat.

📞 Questions about the selection? The Vehi Mercatus team is available by phone Mon–Fri 8am–12pm and 1pm–3pm. 30-day return policy, Trusted Shops member.

From a small flask for your belt to a 3.5-litre ceremonial horn for a large gathering – browse our range and find the drinking horn that suits your style and occasion. Skål! 🍻

Frequently asked questions

Yes, drinking horns are historically documented – though not as everyday tableware. Archaeological grave finds from the Viking Age and the Migration Period show decorated ceremonial horns as grave goods, indicating ritual and ceremonial use. Daily drinking needs were met with clay and wooden vessels. The drinking horn was a status symbol at festivals and ceremonies.

Drinking horns should be washed by hand with lukewarm water and mild washing-up liquid – never put them in the dishwasher, as heat and aggressive tablets will destroy the internal seal. Dry thoroughly after washing, ideally with the opening facing downwards to prevent mould growth. Rubbing the outside occasionally with linseed oil keeps the horn supple and prevents cracking.

A drinking horn and a mead horn refer to the same object – a curved vessel made from cattle or buffalo horn, based on a historical model. The term ‘mead horn’ simply emphasises its typical use for mead. A horn jug, on the other hand, is a modern interpretation: it can stand upright and does not require a stand, but there is no historical evidence of it being used as a medieval drinking vessel.

The most important criterion is the food-safe inner coating – without it, the horn is decorative but not suitable for drinking. Also pay attention to the capacity (0.35 to 3.5 litres depending on the occasion) and decide whether you need a stand or a belt holder, as classic drinking horns cannot stand upright on their own. Natural colour variations and slight differences in size are due to the material and do not constitute a quality defect.

For beginners, we recommend a horn with a capacity of 0.5 to 0.75 litres – handy enough for medieval markets and LARP, yet large enough for a genuine drinking experience. This size range is affordable (from around €15) and pairs well with a simple belt holder. Those who mainly drink at home can opt straight for a horn jug, which doesn’t require a stand.

Discover related categories

More hornware Buy mead Mead & wine Fruit wines Medieval ceramics Cutlery sets Medieval camp supplies Viking gift ideas

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