Vodník is a supernatural being from Slavic mythology, known primarily in the Czech Republic, Moravia, Slovakia, and Poland. It belongs among water demons and, according to folk beliefs, inhabits ponds, rivers, lakes, or mill races. In the Czech environment, he is most often depicted as a man in a green coat, with red cheeks, a pipe, and wet hair. He often sits on a willow tree.
According to legends, the vodník guards the water and has power over the lives of people who enter it. Sometimes he drowns careless swimmers and keeps their souls in cups at the bottom of the pond. At other times, however, he may be fair or even friendly if people respect the water.
Vodník is an example of how our ancestors explained the dangers of nature and taught children to respect the water element.
This clever pendant was designed by South Bohemian artist Kati.
- Size: 30 x 45 mm
- Material: zinc
- Handmade production
Similar figures can also be found in other European traditions – for example, the German nixie or the Scottish kelpie. The vodník is known among both Western and Eastern Slavs, and among the Southern Slavs mainly among Slovenians. Among most other South Slavic nations, belief in him does not occur, although in Dalmatia stories were told about the so-called sea people, beings half human and half fish.
His female counterpart is usually the water nymph or rusalka. Belief in the vodník is connected to the ancient Slavic water cult and respect for its life-giving but also dangerous nature.
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