The Šestovica Drinking Horn Mount
One of the most remarkable examples of Viking Age drinking horn decoration comes from Šestovica, an important archaeological site near Chernihiv in present-day Ukraine. The original fitting was discovered in grave 2/2006, dating to the 10th century AD. During this period, Šestovica was one of the most significant military and trading centers of early Rus', situated along the great river routes that connected Scandinavia, Eastern Europe, and the Byzantine Empire.
The original horn fitting was crafted from silver and designed to strengthen and decorate the rim of a drinking horn. Its elegant openwork construction features intricate geometric ornamentation characteristic of high-status Viking Age craftsmanship. The fitting belongs to a rare group of luxurious drinking horn mounts associated with the warrior and aristocratic elites of the Viking world.
Openwork horn mounts of this type are extremely rare. Comparable examples have been discovered in elite graves and hoards at sites such as Birka in Sweden, Tjele in Denmark, Thumby-Bienebek in Germany, and Gnězdovo in Russia. These prestigious objects reflect a shared aristocratic drinking culture that connected Scandinavian warriors, merchants, and rulers across vast regions of Northern and Eastern Europe.
Drinking horns played a central role in feasts, ceremonies, and displays of status throughout the Viking Age. More than simple vessels, they symbolized hospitality, authority, and prestige. Finely decorated examples fitted with precious metals were treasured possessions of chieftains, warriors, and wealthy members of society. The Šestovica fitting stands as a testament to the cultural connections between Scandinavia and early Rus' and to the exceptional artistic achievements of 10th-century craftsmen.
Specifications
- Inspired by the 10th-century Šestovica find (grave 2/2006)
- Hand-finished natural horn
- Openwork bronze rim fitting (the original was crafted from silver)
- Approximate capacity: 500–600 ml
- Each horn is unique
Please note: The display stand shown in photographs is not included with the horn.
