The Allure, and Lore, of the Cornucopia

Most holidays have beloved symbols that help us celebrate and appreciate the special occasion, and Thanksgiving is no exception. While we are all familiar with turkeys, pilgrims, and pumpkins, and how they tell the Thanksgiving story, there is one object that is a bit more mysterious.

The cornucopia is a horn-shaped basket filled with wheat, fruit, nuts, and other harvest staples. It is often depicted as the centerpiece of a table or mantel, flanked by candlesticks. The sight of an overflowing cornucopia immediately evokes the joy of a day centered on a feast of mighty proportions.

But how did this ornamental container become associated with Thanksgiving? The story traces back to a mythical goat in ancient times.

A horn with history

The cornucopia first shows up around 3,000 years ago, in the story of Amalthea. According to Greek mythology, Zeus’ mother, Rhea, hid her baby from his evil father, Cronos, with Amalthea — most often depicted as a goat — who nourished the boy in a cave. While playing with Amalthea, Zeus accidentally broke off one of her horns. To make up for it, he blessed the horn so that it could provide all good things to anyone who owned it.

Another version of the story involves the mythical warrior Heracles, the son of Zeus. Heracles stole the horn of the river god Achelous (who was disguised as a bull) while wrestling him to gain the hand of Deianira, the daughter of King Oeneus. Defeated, Achelous offered Heracles the horn of Amalthea in exchange for his own. Heracles accepted and then gave the horn to the Naiads (water nymphs), who transformed it into a cornucopia that remained always filled with food.

During the Middle Ages, artists, sculptors, and stone carvers often used the cornucopia in their works. In these pieces, it symbolized plentiful crops and stood as a potent image of homage to saints, royalty, and gods and goddesses.

By the 17th century, the cornucopia became interpreted more loosely. Renaissance painters like Peter Paul Rubens and Jan Brueghel the Younger included the cornucopia in their allegorical paintings; for example, male and female figures depicting liberality, peace, or fortune hold stylized horns brimming with fruit.

The symbol continues in present-day depictions, particularly in civic affairs. It can be found on the coats of arms of countries including Colombia, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. The state seal of Idaho has not one but two cornucopias symbolizing the state’s agricultural economy, and North Carolina also includes a cornucopia in its state seal. 

A talisman against hunger

The word “cornucopia” combines the Latin words “cornu,” meaning “horn” (think “unicorn”), and “copiae,” meaning “abundance” (think “copious”).

The cornucopia is a powerful symbol because it conjures images of food and natural nourishment. It also suggests the idea of sharing with and feeding the multitudes. An object associated with generosity and positivity, the cornucopia stands for life, hope, and hospitality.

In modern times, the cornucopia also conveys an important message of nature. Within the classic cornucopia is an array of foods grown from the earth. This “horn of plenty” helps us remember and appreciate our agricultural heritage.

Bring the cornucopia into your home

With its upturned tail and curvy shape, the cornucopia is very distinctive looking, and quite beautiful. Combined with a gathering of deep purple grapes, apples, squashes, and nuts, the cornucopia adds a deep note of authenticity to your Thanksgiving festivities.

The classic cornucopia is made of wicker, like a basket, but you can also find cornucopias made of natural fibers, and in many sizes and colors. The classic wicker cornucopia usually rests on the larger base of the horn, with the tapered edge pointing up. A bed of autumn leaves creates a pleasing base that also helps stabilize the horn. The larger opening is filled with Thanksgiving goodies, which spill out onto the table for dramatic effect. Use a cornucopia or other harvest-themed arrangement to create a dining table centerpiece, and place candlesticks on either side.

Many decorative cornucopias, made of more fragile materials, are out there too. In the early- to mid-20th century, companies like the Roseville Pottery Company and A. H. Heisey & Company created stunning ceramic, glass, and crystal ware shaped like a cornucopia. In most cases, the horn shape is turned so that the curved tail becomes the base and the wide mouth is on top — perfect for a vase of autumn flowers.

Creative DIY cornucopias

While the shape of a cornucopia may look difficult to create, crafting one is actually a fun project for adults and kids alike. Use your imagination and take a look online at all the wonderful ways you can bring the cornucopia to life.

Bread cornucopia

Try this easy method for making an eatable bread cornucopia using ready-to-bake biscuit dough.

Cornucopia centerpiece

Cornucopias make the perfect gift if your Thanksgiving plans include visiting family and friends. Why not dazzle your host or hostess with a cornucopia you made yourself? This DIY cornucopia, made with chicken wire, burlap ribbon, and grapevine wire or wired hemp, is one of the most beautiful we’ve seen. Fill it with fruits and nuts of the season, or perhaps some sweet treats.

Cornucopia crafts for kids

Kids can create cute cornucopias easily out of construction paper, felt, paper plates, and even ice cream cones. We love these ideas because the kids do all the creative work and the results will add so much warmth to your Thanksgiving décor.