This artwork, by the Norwegian artist Gerhard Munthe (1849–1929), is a depiction of the Norse god, Odin. The print features several key iconographic details linked to Odin, including the god’s magical spear, his unique horse, and his ever-watchful pair of ravens. Each of these details were discussed by the prolific Icelandic writer, Snorri Sturluson (c. 1179-1241), whose Prose Edda contained descriptions of the god’s powers, gear, and animal companions. In regard to Odin, himself, he was described as a warrior and magician who restlessly searched for knowledge and powers to avert the prophesied doom of his godly family. His search was aided by his two ravens. As told by Snorri Sturluson, “Two ravens sit on Odin’s shoulders, and into his ears they tell all the news they see or hear. Their names are Hugin [Thought] and Munin [Mind, Memory]. At sunrise he sends them off to fly throughout the whole world, and they return in time for the first meal. Thus he gathers knowledge about many things that are happening, and so people call him the raven god” (Prose Edda, Gylfaginning, chapter 38). In addition to the ravens, the artwork also depicts Odin’s interesting horse, named Sleipnir. This mount, an eight-legged stallion, was oddly birthed by the mischievous god, Loki, while he was shapeshifted in the form of a mare. As for Odin’s spear, the weapon was a dwarven-forged polearm, named Gungnir, that was magically assured to pierce its enemies cleanly, without getting stuck. Such are the mythical elements that inspired the artwork by Gerhard Munthe.
Written by C. Keith Hansley
Sources:
- The Prose Edda by Snorri Sturluson, translated by Jesse Byock. New York: Penguin Classics, 2005.
- https://www.nasjonalmuseet.no/en/collection/object/NG.K_H.B.07142
