Now and Then, The Gnome Took Hold of the Reins (1907 CE)

Då och då tog tomten tag i tyglarna or “Now and then, the gnome took hold of the reins” is a captivating artwork by John Bauer, created using gouache, ink, and white pigment on paper. Measuring 21 x 18.5 cm or 8.3 x 7.3 inches, this piece was featured in the first edition of “Bland tomtar och troll” in 1907, where it illustrated the fairy tale “The enchanted forest.” The painting captures the mysterious and supernatural essence of the story, drawing viewers into a world where nature is alive and filled with enigmatic forces.

The story, like many in the collection, reflects the early 20th-century fascination with the mystical and the unknown, blending elements of traditional folklore with the artist’s unique visual style. An interesting anecdote related to this artwork is its depiction of the enchanted forest, a recurring theme in many of Bauer’s works. The forest, as imagined by Bauer, is not just a backdrop but a character in itself, embodying the mysterious and sometimes threatening forces of nature. In “The enchanted forest,” the gnome (a mythological creature from Scandinavian folklore) taking hold of the reins symbolizes the unpredictable and magical elements that guide the story’s characters through their adventures.

The artwork is a prime example of Bauer’s ability to encapsulate the eerie and magical atmosphere of Scandinavian folklore. “The enchanted forest” reflects cultural themes prevalent at the time, such as the fascination with the supernatural and the human relationship with nature. Bauer’s illustrations, including this one, are considered quintessential representations of early 20th-century Swedish art, deeply embedded in the nation’s cultural heritage.

The artwork was created using gouache, ink, and white pigment on paper. Its dimensions are 21 x 18.5 cm (approximately 8.3 x 7.3 inches). The use of gouache allows for rich, opaque color application, while the ink and white pigment add intricate details and highlights, giving the piece a depth that enhances its mystical quality.