Carved narwhal tusk

Narwhal tusk, carved around 1125–1150

Scientific name: Monodon monoceros

A treasured unicorn horn

This ‘unicorn horn’ is now known to be the tusk of a narwhal. It was probably used as a candlestick during religious ceremonies. Decorated with leaves, dragons and human figures, it was carved around 900 years ago, possibly in the workshop of Lincoln Cathedral in the UK.

Objects thought to be unicorn horns were once valuable treasures owned by rich and powerful Europeans.

Courtesy of National Museums Liverpool. Purchased with the assistance of the Art Fund, the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the Friends of the National Museums and Galleries on Merseyside.