What is a Dala horse?

This beautifully painted horse has become one of the symbols of Sweden. The original Dala horse (Dalahäst) has been around for many centuries and was created by Swedish woodcarvers in the Dalarna (Dalecarlia) province near Mora, Sweden. To pass the time, men carved little toys for their children, using scraps from their woodworking jobs and while they mostly made horses, there were also some roosters or pigs. However, the most enduring of these little creatures remains the Dala horse. 

They’re known for their distinctive shape and traditional Nordic aesthetic with a flower-looking saddle. This style of painting originated in Dalarna and is a folk style using kurbit painting or Dalapainting. Different aesthetic variations have developed over the years. Red has remained the most common and popular, however, other colors and designs are available.  

ASI has over 50 Dala horses in its collections, ranging from miniatures to salt and pepper shakers, to glass works.

The most notable Dala horse at ASI however is Cardamom, our 20-foot inflatable Dala horse known for making its appearance at our biggest events, like the Midsommar Celebration. ASI also keeps one permanent Dala horse on view in the Mansion. Gustav, the mechanical, coin operated horse has been a staple at ASI for years and is ridden by all (not just for kids!). Find Gustav just outside the Family Gallery, and make your day brighter with a little ride. 

If you’re driving through Minnesota, there’s no way you’ll miss the 22-foot Dala horse statue in Mora, or the collection of Dala horses around town in Scandia.  

Not surprisingly, Dala horses make the perfect souvenir! ASI’s Museum Store sells a variety of horses in different colors and sizes. The Dala horse design is so popular that a variety of home goods, products, and even tattoos are widespread.   

Want to make your own Dala horse? ASI’s handcraft program has several woodcarving classes each year to teach students how to carve their very own horse. Whether you’re an experienced carver or brand new to the craft, you’ll leave the class having completed a wooden Dala horse carving plus the skills you need to continue practicing the craft on your own.