2026 Scandinavian Icons Collectible Ornament, The Dala Horse
The Dala Horse has been around Scandinavia for centuries. It originated in the provence of Dalarna in Sweden according to many legends. The Dalarna region of Sweden was the center for furniture making starting in the late 1600's. The forest around Dalarna produced a specific variety of pine that is ideal for furniture making.
It is easy to see why the Dala Horse's got their start in Dalarna. They were carved out of the scraps from furniture making. To cover any imperfections these early carvers would use paint to cover up the blemishes and create a bright colorful surface certain to capture a child's imagination. Many stories talk about the original Dala Horses being made as toys for children and the variety of the painting made them playful and fun.
As time moved on the simple Dala Horse Toys became more of a folk art piece. As different families started to decorate them they would "sign" their work by developing a specific pattern and color. Today it is still possible for a collector to identify the painter for a horse.
The Dala Horse moved from child's toy to highly prized piece of folk art over the years. They became a symbol of strength and dependability. It was not until after World War II that the Dala Horse got its touch of fame and moved forward as a symbol of Scandinavia.
In 1939 a two story Dala Horse greeted guests at the Scandinavian Pavilion. From that day on the Dala Horse had made a full journey from simple child's toy, to folk craft item, to international symbol and souvenir.
Since its early days the Dala Horse has found its way into literature through such books as; Per and the Dala Horse, A Christmas Wish for Little Dala Horse, Dala Hastar, Anna and the Dala Horse to name a few. In 2003 a Dala Horse was the central character of the Norwegian Film, Kitchen Stories. The
Dala Horse has become a real icon in both the folk world and as a symbol for Scandinavia.
Traditonal Scandinavian blue silkscreen design on a 2.75" white porcelain disk. Gift boxed with history.
