The Water Goblin (Vodník) is a supernatural being from Slavic mythology, known especially in Bohemia, Moravia, Slovakia, and Poland. He belongs to the water demons and, according to folk belief, inhabits ponds, rivers, lakes, or mill races. In the Czech tradition, 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 Water Goblin guards the water and has power over the lives of people who enter it. Sometimes he drowns careless swimmers and keeps their souls in little cups at the bottom of the pond. At other times, however, he may be just or even friendly if people respect the water.
The Water Goblin is an example of how our ancestors explained the dangers of nature and taught children to respect the forces of water.
This clever keychain was designed by the South Bohemian artist Kati.
- Size: 30 x 45 mm (pendant)
- Material: zinc
- Handmade production
Similar figures can be found in other European traditions – for example, the German Nixie or the Scottish Kelpie. The Water Goblin is known among Western and Eastern Slavs, and among the Southern Slavs mainly among the Slovenes. Among most other South Slavic nations, belief in him does not occur, although in Dalmatia stories were told about so-called sea people, beings half human and half fish.
His female counterpart is the water maiden or Rusalka. Belief in the Water Goblin is connected with the ancient Slavic water cult and respect for its life-giving but also dangerous character.
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