The Dalecarlian horse is a well known symbol representing Sweden. The brightly coloured wooden horse originates from the province of Dalarna. Here traditional folk art has grown into a national symbol for the entire country.

The horses have been man’s friend and company for many thousands of years. The horses were held for working the fields, logging, moving merchandise to market, and transporting people around, especially on Sundays when going to church. Sunday was a day of rest and folk art for many was to carve figures in wood. Horses became the favourite to make especially for children.

During the 19th century it became increasingly popular to paint these horses using a colourful artistic style inspired partly by wall paintings. In the villages around the city of Mora in the province of Dalarna people became quite skilled at this art. The beautifully painted Dalecarlia horse soon became the symbol as well as a beloved souvenir particularly associated with the province of Dalarna.

Swedes emigrating to America took the tradition with them. Artistically decorated Dalecarlia horses are still found, especially in the town of Lindsborg in Kansas where it has become the city symbol.