It’s May Day, Beltane, and in some parts of Britain the Hobby Horse, or ‘Obby ‘Oss, is part of the festivities marking the beginning of Springtime fertility. There is a long tradition, predating Christianity, of celebrations involving horses, possibly linked to the ancient Celtic horse goddess, Epona. Here in Wales we have the Mari Lwyd, or Grey Mare, although this is a New Year tradition. Here’s a monotype from sketches of the Ystrad Mari I did earlier this year.
Horses were clearly very important to ancient societies. I love the variety of May Day festivities that the Church may not have approved of but did not stamp out.
There’ such a revival going on as well. Lovely to see.
It’s all good fun and a chance for people to get out and be with other people, instead of staring at dull old screens!.
Do you know much about “Ceffyl Dwr” or water horses? I have come across a reference to one being seen at Oxwich in the early 19th century.
No I haven’t, but I know a man who might ….