The myth of the Kelpie, deeply rooted in Scottish folklore, is a captivating and eerie tale that has intrigued and frightened generations. A Kelpie, in Scottish mythology, is a shape-shifting water spirit inhabiting the lochs and pools of Scotland. It has been described primarily as appearing in the form of a horse but is known to take human form as well.
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In its most common guise as a horse, the Kelpie is said to be a stunning creature, sleek and black, though it can also appear as a white horse. It emerges from the depths of the water, tempting people, especially children, to ride on its back. Once its unsuspecting victims mount the horse, they find themselves unable to dismount. The creature’s skin becomes adhesive, and it drags them into the water, drowning and consuming them. Only the heart and liver would be left to float to the surface. This aspect of the Kelpie myth serves as a cautionary tale warning children of the dangers of playing near treacherous waters.
However, the Kelpie’s ability to shape-shift adds a more complex layer to the myth. It can transform into a human form, often appearing as a handsome man to lure women or a hairy man lurking in the streams, waiting to crush any human it encounters. In its human form, the Kelpie retains its water-weed in its hair, a tell-tale sign of its true nature.
The Kelpie is not just a simple monster; it often represents the strength and power of the waterways it inhabits. In some stories, Kelpies are not inherently evil; they can be tamed by those who dare to place a bridle over their heads. In these tales, the Kelpie grants its captor the strength and endurance of ten horses. This aspect of the legend highlights the respect and awe that the Scottish people hold for the natural world, especially the powerful, often treacherous, water bodies that shape their landscape.
Beyond its ominous reputation, the Kelpie myth also serves a symbolic purpose. It embodies the unpredictable and often dangerous nature of water, reflecting an essential aspect of Scottish geography and life. The tales of Kelpies were not only meant to instill caution but also to explain tragic drownings or unexpected disappearances that were common in older times.
Furthermore, the Kelpie legend is deeply intertwined with the Celtic reverence for water bodies as spiritual places. Lakes and rivers were often seen as gateways to the otherworld, and creatures like the Kelpie were believed to be the guardians of these thresholds, adding a mystical layer to the folklore.
In modern times, the myth of the Kelpie continues to capture the imagination. It is a subject of various artistic representations, from literature to sculptures, such as the famous Kelpies in Falkirk, Scotland. These 30-meter high horse-head sculptures, created by artist Andy Scott, are a testament to the enduring legacy of this mythical creature in Scottish culture.
The Kelpies story , thus, is more than a mere folk tale; it is a rich tapestry of fear, respect, and awe for nature, encapsulating the deep connection between the Scottish people and their land. It stands as a reminder of the power of storytelling in understanding and respecting the natural world.
The Kelpies Falkirk , Scotland canvas prints and gifts
Check out our original artwork – Kelpies prints collection including canvas prints , and travel mugs
The The Kelpies prints gift shop has t-shirts , canvas prints , jigsaw puzzles and hoodies
Kelpies travel mugs
Features
- Your personal mobile caffeination and art delivery unit
- Insulated stainless steel with removable polycarbonate lid
- Holds 15 oz. (443 ml)
- Base fits in most standard car cup holders (diameter 2.5″ / 6.35 cm)
- Top rack dishwasher-safe
- Wraparound design printed for you when you order
The Kelpies are the largest pieces of equine art in the world , created by Scottish artist Andy Scott. The most successful Scottish artist of all time is Jack Vettriano .
The Kelpies Falkirk tours are available now – visit the Kelpies , the Falkirk Wheel and Callendar House on your own private tour of Falkirk
Visit the Kelpies Falkirk , Scotland
Looking for things to do in Falkirk ? Why not take the Kelpies Falkirk tour and visit these unique attractions ?
The Kelpies, Stirling Castle and the Falkirk Wheel feature in this tour .
The Kelpies have become one of the top tourist attractions in Scotland with over three million visitors in its 10 year history . The Kelpies have their 10 year anniversary next week .
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