Æthelwulf Art

The Adventures of Little Tomte

We hear so much about little people, house spirits and otherworldly creatures of rich and colourful fables. These wee folk have many roles and daily undertakings, constantly going out and about into the forest or caring for the land on which they dwell. They come in all shapes and sizes; some playful, whereas others are mischievous. But for all their goodness, as well as faults, they can enrich your life through fun and laughter!

Our story begins with a house spirit. Deep within the heart of Scandinavia; on a farm whose family have lived for generations. He is a peculiar one, with a long white beard, red cap and clothed in modest farmer's garb. Tiny yet active, he is the Tomte! The Homestead Man. Known by many names though witnessed by few. He helps his family by cleaning, tending and caring for the family homestead. Despite his small stature he exercises his great strength to do what needs done. The family know not to anger him. For his temperament can unnerve even the hardiest of men.

Although unpredictable he is still loved by his family, receiving nothing but love and treats. And on Christmas Eve! A special treat! A bowl of porridge with butter on top! He really loves his porridge, so you should never take even a single bite from his bowl or suffer his wrath, unless... should he return the kindness thus leaving it for you. Despite all the love, care and kindness, Tomte desires more... An adventure all his own!

To Be Continued...

Happy New Year!!!

May this year bring you endless cheer, joy, laughter, rest and prosperity. May dreams be realised, projects fulfilled and boundless success for those who've endured so much of late.

From your local folk artist,
Æthelwulf 😁🐺

The Jul Tide spirit refuses to depart. I'm working on a last minute Tomte painting before the season is passed. 😁

"Werewolves were not always something feared or even considered odd. Some areas would not even bat an eye if one were to suddenly cast their soul as a wolf, casually remarking that that was a werewolf battling spirits. A more detailed account of such an individual comes from “The Land of Werewolves” the Baltic Land of Livonia. This is the account of Old Thiess, an eighty year old man who claimed to be a werewolf along with many others who were “The Dogs of God” they would transform into wolves equip themselves with Iron whips to do battle with devils and sorcerers at the edge of the sea to take back the fertility of the fields. A common practice of spirit warfare for the fertility of the land found across Europe. Old Thiess was whipped for his insolent beliefs, even if he framed them in a positive and pseudo-Christian light that he probably believed. These werewolves and witches were an ancient custom and in some cases priests of a god, such as with the Slavic god Simargl. They did not have nearly as many negative connotations as they do today."-Excerpt of Wolves in European Spirituality by I.M. Knosp

Greetings, while I knuckle down to do a deep dive into the lore of the many halls and realms of our Gods I will be doing a series of Wolf Paintings. The attached quotes are from an article on the importance of the Wolf by my good friends at Hyperborean Radio.

Enjoy this series as an intermission between Niflheim and the further Realms and Halls to follow.

Glad Jul,
Æthelwulf