Collection: John Bauer

John Bauer Posters - Enchanting Fairytale Art for Your Home

Step into the magical world of John Bauer, Sweden’s most beloved fairytale illustrator. Known for his enchanting depictions of trolls, elves, and mythical creatures, Bauer’s iconic artwork has captivated audiences for generations. His illustrations for Bland tomtar och troll (Among Gnomes and Trolls) define Swedish folklore aesthetics, blending dreamlike landscapes with soft, glowing light and intricate details.

At Posterton, we carefully restore and reproduce John Bauer’s artwork while preserving its original charm. Any natural marks, brush strokes, and aged textures remain to honor the authenticity of these timeless illustrations. These details help to retain the magic and history of Bauer’s original prints, allowing his fairytale world to unfold just as it was first imagined.

Who Was John Bauer?

Born in Jönköping, Sweden, in 1882, John Bauer was a visionary artist who studied at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts. His artistic journey took him across Europe, with significant influences from Lapland’s indigenous Sami culture, Italian Renaissance art, and German Romanticism.

Although he worked with oils and frescoes, Bauer’s watercolor illustrations became his legacy. His mystical forests, moonlit landscapes, and ethereal princesses remain some of the most celebrated works in Scandinavian art. Tragically, Bauer and his family perished in a shipwreck on Lake Vättern in 1918, leaving behind a timeless artistic heritage.