Horn Cups and Horn Dice

Early civilizations carved dice from animal horns, hooves, and ankle bones (talus), which is why modern dice are still colloquially called "bones". Long before they were used for gambling, asymmetrical bones and horn pieces were rolled to predict the future or divine the will of the gods. Ancient makers produced rod-shaped "long dice" with four numbered faces from horn, a style that persisted through the Roman and Viking eras into medieval Asia and Europe. Animal horns were also hollowed out and shaped into cylindrical dice cups used for shaking and rolling in taverns across the Roman Empire and the Middle Ages.

These dice are 9/16th of an inch, on each side. The cups stand 2.75 to 3 inches high. Sets are matched

A single cup and dice are available.

Matching set of horn cups are cut from the same horn. The dice were from a different animal entirely.

Custom Scrimshaw work is available upon request but will require phone and email communication.

The game cups are suitable for drinking.