John Bauer: "Poor Little Bear" (1912) Swedish Fairy Tale Art Print

Step into the mysterious, mist-shrouded forests of Swedish folklore with this exquisite John Bauer "Poor Little Bear" reproduction. This iconic 1912 illustration perfectly captures the dreamlike charm, melancholic beauty, and spiritual depth of Scandinavian fairy tale art.

John Bauer (1882–1918) was the defining illustrator for the popular Swedish anthology, Bland tomtar och troll (Among Gnomes and Trolls). His unique style—a blend of Romantic Nationalism and Symbolism—features muted, earthy color palettes and a sense of vast, ancient nature. This particular scene, Stackars lilla Basse!, is one of his most tender and famous: it depicts a young princess (often associated with his wife, Ester Ellqvist) or figure gently interacting with a large, somber-faced bear, emphasizing the innocence and mysterious connection between humans and nature. Bauer’s world is dense, quiet, and deeply atmospheric, offering a nostalgic window into the Golden Age of Illustration and Northern European mythology.

• Artist: John Bauer (1882–1918), master Swedish painter and illustrator.

• Artwork: "Poor Little Bear" (Stackars lilla Basse!), illustrated for Bland tomtar och troll (1912).

• Artistic Style: Romantic Nationalism/Symbolism; known for its muted color palette and atmospheric portrayal of Norse folklore.

• Medium: Originally rendered in watercolor and tempera on paper.

• Print Quality: Museum-quality Archival Giclée Print faithfully recreating the original's soft, textural washes and fine line detail.

• Aesthetic: Quintessential Nordic folklore art and enchanting fairy tale decor.

Add the quiet, powerful magic of Scandinavian storytelling to your collection. This iconic John Bauer art print is a cherished piece of historical illustration. Order this Poor Little Bear Giclée reproduction today.

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• Vintage fairy prints