Kopetürítés

Kopetürítés is a traditional Hungarian folk art form that involves the intricate carving and decoration of animal horns, most commonly those of cattle and goats. This practice has a long history, deeply embedded in rural Hungarian culture, and served various purposes from practical decoration on tools and weapons to purely artistic expression. The artisans, often referred to as kopetürítők, would meticulously engrave patterns, scenes from village life, floral motifs, and sometimes even symbolic or religious imagery onto the horn's surface.

The process typically involved selecting suitable horns, cleaning them thoroughly, and then using a variety of specialized tools such as knives, chisels, and awls to create the desired designs. The horns could then be further enhanced with natural dyes or polishes to bring out the carved details and add color. Kopetürítés was not just a craft but also a way to pass down cultural heritage and storytelling through visual art. While the practice has declined in recent decades due to modernization and changing societal trends, there are ongoing efforts to preserve and revitalize this unique folk art through workshops, exhibitions, and the work of dedicated artisans.