Runic Tankard

Runic Tankard

We've teamed up with the wonderful KarnKreft to bring you a very limited collection of stunning hand crafted stoneware!

This Runic Tankard has been inspired by the pottery of the Anglo Saxons and the Vikings. These were often dark and heavily decorated with stamps and, occasionally, inscriptions. Each tankard is made entirely by hand, from start to finish, making each one beautifully unique. The outside of the cup has been brushed with black iron and manganese to turn it a rich metallic black, with hints of gold. The inside and lip is glazed only with a clear gloss, which is durable and water-tight. They hold approx. 600 ml. 

WHAT IS A TANKARD?

The word tankard originates from the 13th century and actually refers to any wooden vessel. Tankards of oak, poplar and pine were found on the 16th Century Mary Rose ship. The sides were made of small planks (like a barrel) and they featured hinging lids. It is thought that the lid was to protect the beer drinker from plague-infected flies landing in their brew. 

Nowadays we tend to associate tankards with the beer stein, made from pewter or pottery. However, when serving anything acidic, lead content in pewter could leach into the drink and cause gout.

Who is KarnKreft?

"I work from a little garden shed, about six feet squared. I suppose it is falling down the hill. But it happens so slowly, about an inch a year. Despite the size and the evermore sloping nature of the shed, it is an important place, because here I make my livelihood. I am a potter by trade.

I call my shop Karn Kreft, ‘Karn’ means hill and ‘kreft’ means craft. They’re Cornish words, because Cornwall is my home. My neighbours are three doves, who watch me from the windowsill. I built their cote beside my pottery, so as to keep each other company.

A potter’s mark is their signature. Normally you will find it on the base of the pot somewhere. Mine is a broken arrow, or sometimes I will write Karn Kreft. Thus far I have sold around two hundred pots. So if you find another with my mark, you are very lucky."

- KarnKreft

To find out more visit here.

• 600 ml capacity approx.
• Brushed black iron and manganese exterior
• Clear gloss glaze interior
• Please wash by hand 
• Do not put in the dishwasher or microwave