Dala Horses from Sweden

HL's dad was a priest in Denmark, though not what I think of as a very conventional priest; an unusual and generous man. He had a great love of gardening and  unusual artefacts. In later life when he was semi retired he used to work part time in an upmarket junk/antiques shop in Køge. He would usually make us smile with his choice of gifts come Christmas or birthdays - there would often be something kind of quirky, arty or jolie-laide. A strange Bavarian vase, some curious earrings, or what have you. These Dala horses are one of the many fine things he gave us. Though they are still made in Sweden, the carving and painting of wooden horses has been a tradition in Dalarna, Sweden since the 17th century. I think these are fairly old.

I particularly like them because I was born in the Chinese year of the Wooden Horse.

Many thanks to all who have visited and read my journal in the last couple of days and for all your friendly comments, much appreciated!