Steer Horn as a Drinking Vessel
Steer horns and rams horns have been used as drinking vessels since 5th century b.c.e. (before common era) in Northern Europe, Russia, Africa, and the Orient.
The horn is of an animal, making it part of the sacred circle of life, cherished by Pagan cultures, of which I am a devout practitioner (Wicca).
When Christianity became popular, the drinking horn faded, making for metal, pottery, and Roman glass.
Most of the horns found in the British Isles have been fitted with silver and gold mounts and carved with battle scenes.
Cattle and ram horns are naturally hollow.
Unfinished horns can be bought from leather merchants, partially finished or glazed inside. One such outlet is the Tandy Leather Company.
The safety of drinking from a steer horn is duly noted here. I have been drinking out of a steer horn for many years.
Perhaps you have found one in someone's barn tucked back in cobwebs and hay dust. This is the case in which I acquired mine. I'm telling you, they're Gold!
I will be posting part two of this article soon in how to prepare a steer horn for drinking and maintaining. Hope you enjoyed this!
Copyright 2005 Sage Sweetwater, firebrand lesbian novelist
