The Ash Lad and the Troll by Theodor Kittelsen. A young man runs through a grassy hillside in the foreground while a massive, shadowy troll stands among the pine trees in the background under a pale twilight sky.

The Ash Lad and the Troll

Theodor Kittelsen

1900 · Oil Paint, Canvas

A captivating scene from Norwegian folklore depicting the legendary Ash Lad as he encounters a towering troll in a moody, twilight landscape.

$129

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Where it works

A measured piece with active movement with cooler, clearer color — holds a wall without competing for attention.

Often works in
Living Room · Library · Study
Placement
Works well as a measured horizontal anchor
Walls
Best where a lighter wall gives it room to show
Color notes
Charcoal black, Rich brown, Soft sage

About the piece

Painted by Theodor Kittelsen around 1900, this iconic work captures the mystical heart of Norwegian fairy tales. It depicts the resourceful Ash Lad (Askeladden) crossing a hillside as a giant, mossy troll emerges from the dark forest behind him. Kittelsen's masterful use of atmospheric light and deep, earthy tones evokes a sense of both wonder and tension, making it a definitive example of Scandinavian National Romanticism.

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