Dala Horses

A Dalecarlian horse or Dala horse (Swedish: Dalahäst)[p] is a traditional carved, painted wooden horse statuette originating in Swedish province Dalarna. In the old days the Dala horse was mostly used as a toy for children; in modern times it has become a symbol of Dalarna, as well as Sweden in general. Several different types of Dala horses are made, with distinguishing features common to the locality of the site where they are produced. One particular style has, however, become much more common and widespread than others. It is stoutly carved and painted bright red with details and a harness in white, green, yellow and blue.

My Mum had a collection of these horses given to her by a Swedish friend in the 1960s and I bought one on a visit to Stockholm in 2008 the year she passed away. I now have them all together on display on the sideboard.

I have been thinking about her a lot lately and it is her birthday coming up in early February. These reminded me of her. I wish she was still here.

Have a great weekend all.