The Dullahan is a creature of Irish folklore. She’s a mischievous fairy who, like a grim reaper, sounds the death knell for humans just by showing up. A character as morbid as he is macabre, this mischievous little creature sometimes even goes around without his head!
The Dullahan is known for its mischief and macabre games. He can remove his head at will, and use it for ball games and other macabre activities. (The Dullahan is often depicted with his head tucked under his arm, and has inspired many films, such as Tim Burton’s Sleepy Hollow). Generally speaking, the Dullahan is best recognized by his incandescent eyes, as well as his smile, which is twisted into an ugly grin.
The Dullahan usually travels on horseback. To keep the animal moving, it uses a whip made from the backbone of a human being, which it likes to snap in the air. From time to time, the Dullahan also travels by cariole, made of bones, femurs and skulls…
The Dullahan’s role is rather morbid: when he stops his horse, a human being must die. All he has to do is stop his mount and whisper the name of his victim, and the person concerned immediately collapses.
While there’s no way to avoid death at the hands of a Dullahan, these creatures do have a few weaknesses worth knowing about. The Dullahan is by nature a discreet creature, who does not like to be observed. Be careful, then, if you spy on a Dullahan: he may well spray you with a bowl of blood (a sign of death to come), or throw his bone whip in your eyes! (A little painful!).
To fend off such attacks, the Dullahan is particularly afraid of gold: this material alone is enough to repel them! A technique that may be a little expensive, but it works!
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