Bland tomtar och troll 6 (1912) – Illustrated by John Bauer

The sixth volume of Bland tomtar och troll (Among Gnomes and Trolls), published in 1912 by Åhlén & Åkerlund, features the evocative and now-iconic illustrations of John Bauer, one of Sweden’s most beloved illustrators. This annual fairy tale anthology series, first published in 1907, became renowned for combining original Swedish folklore with richly imaginative artwork. Volume 6 is considered one of the strongest and most collectible entries in the series.

The 1912 edition includes stories by notable Swedish authors such as Helena Nyblom and C. G. Starbäck, written in a lyrical and traditional folk style. These stories revolve around enchanted forests, kind-hearted trolls, brave children, and magical creatures—all brought vividly to life through Bauer’s illustrations.

Bauer’s art in this volume continues his development of a deeply atmospheric style. His muted earth tones, fine line work, and tender portrayal of both human and mythic characters create a timeless and emotional visual narrative. The trolls—often hulking, mossy, and gentle-looking—contrast beautifully with delicate princesses and dreamy forest backdrops. His deep reverence for Swedish nature and folklore is evident in every brushstroke.

About the Illustrator:
John Bauer (1882–1918) was a Swedish painter and illustrator whose work for Bland tomtar och troll established him as the definitive visual interpreter of Swedish fairy tales. Educated at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts, Bauer blended Art Nouveau elegance with Norse mythology and national romanticism. His unique ability to evoke mood and magic through subdued color palettes and haunting compositions made his art unforgettable. Tragically, Bauer died young in a shipwreck, but his legacy continues to shape the aesthetics of Scandinavian fantasy and folklore illustration.

For the Collector’s Library:

• Bland tomtar och troll (1907–1915) – Other volumes illustrated by Bauer – Essential for appreciating his evolving style.
• East of the Sun and West of the Moon (1914), illustrated by Kay Nielsen – A Nordic fairy tale collection with intricate, fantastical Art Nouveau visuals.

Art Gallery: John Bauer – Bland Tomtar Och Troll 6