The Water Sprite | Theodor Kittelsen | 1904

In Theodor Kittelsen’s coloured version of The Water Sprite (1904), a pair of luminous eyes rises from a still woodland pool. Concentric ripples mark the creature’s presence, while water lilies and the reflection of the forest seem to draw the eye towards the dark centre of the scene. A pale band of reflected light sets the foreground vegetation against the almost black water.

Kittelsen gives the water spirit of Norwegian folklore a form that appears inseparable from its surroundings. The image gains its unsettling character through this uncertainty: an ordinary pool becomes a place where something watchful and unfamiliar might be concealed. This is the coloured 1904 composition, distinct from the earlier monochrome version.

Print:

A premium heavyweight 200gsm fine art print on enhanced matte art paper, with a smooth, non-reflective finish that brings out the artwork’s textures and tonal detail.

All prints include a 0.25 inch white border on each side to ensure space for framing.

Our Eco Credentials Include:

• FSC approved or sustainably sourced paper
• Printed using water based inks
• Local fulfilment reduces carbon emissions
• Contains no plastic

Sizes:

14 × 11 inches = 35.6 × 27.9 cm

20 × 16 inches = 50.8 × 40.6 cm