Molybdomancy — from the Greek molybdos (lead) — is divination through the shapes created when molten metal is poured rapidly into cold water. The metal hardens instantly into irregular forms that the practitioner interprets as symbolic images.
Traditionally lead was used, though tin and wax were common alternatives. The reader holds the cast shape up to candlelight and rotates it, observing the silhouettes cast on a wall or ceiling. Each shape is interpreted: a ship foretells a journey, a heart promises love, a key indicates new opportunity, a ring signifies marriage.
Molybdomancy remains a living New Year's tradition in Germany, Austria, Finland, and Scandinavia, where it is called Bleigiessen or Lyijynvalanta — casting lead or tin on New Year's Eve to read the year ahead.