The Viking. Wood spirit. Tree spirit. Cottonwood bark carving. Wood top art.

The Viking wood spirit.
Hand carved by Alan.
This piece was created with Cottonwood bark from the mountains of Utah.
His eyes are set on western shores.
A predrilled hole is on the back for easy wallhanging.

The wood spirit is a European legend originating from villagers who made long journeys through the forest.  On calm days when the wind lays low, there is a sense of peace and tranquility in the forest.  On days when storms are brewing and winds are blowing, the trees of the forest make sounds of moaning and sighing as though voices can be heard from spirits within.  For centuries people believed the forest to be filled with mystical spirits and that those who dared to enter would earn the spirits wrath.

 During the 15th century they believed that when the men went into the woods to hunt and didn't return. that they had been taken by the evil spirits.  They also believed that the tree spirits were the most powerful of all spirits and were good and wise.  They believed that the tree spirits would protect them from evil.  So before they would venture into the woods to hunt, they would knock on the tree to awaken the sleeping spirit to protect them.  This is where we get the saying “knock on wood” or “touch wood”.

 Wise travelers assured their safety by carving wood spirit images on walking sticks or pieces of wood and bark.  These carvings appeased the spirits, thus the traveler was allowed to enter and leave the forest without difficulty.  Catching a glimpse of one of these elusive creatures is said to be a lucky thing for if you are fortunate enough to actually see one, your health, happiness and good fortune are guaranteed.

 Wood spirits are still being carved into top pieces of wood and are often given as gifts.  The wood spirit should be given a special place within the home in order for its presence to bring wisdom, prosperity, humor, good health and good luck to all that live there.  Any house which is home to a wood spirit will stand protected and be blessed.