BLAND TOMTAR OCH TROLL. [AMONG GNOMES AND TROLLS] The original cover illustration for issue number 22.

An original illustration by Einar Norelius beautifully executed in watercolour, bodycolour and ink showing two trolls in a cave, one of them looking curiously at a princess wearing a blue ballgown that it is holding in a cage. Signed in white ink at the top right corner. Framed. In fine condition, the painting bright and clean, the frame sound. The painting measures 23 x 23cm and the frame measures 30 x 30cm.

The illustration was created by Einar Norelius (1900-1985) for the front cover of issue 22 of the Swedish fairy tale annual 'Bland tomtar och troll'. First published in 1907, the annual's original chief illustrator was the influential Swedish artist John Bauer, followed by Gustaf Tenggren, who later worked as a concept artist for Walt Disney, before the title was passed on to Norelius, who held the position from 1927 to 1980. During his long career he became one of Sweden's favourite fairy tale illustrators, providing artwork for many collections of folk tales and troll stories. He also produced comic strips, such as 'Jumbo i djungeln'. This illustration is a wonderful example of Norelius' very early work for 'Bland tomtar och troll', with the mysterious atmosphere and the design of trolls showing the clear inheritance of Bauer's legacy, while Norelius' bold and dynamic style remains distinct.