The Neck's Polska

This statue by Swedish sculptor Bror Hjorth is what greets me to Uppsala every weekday morning. It's inspired by the old Germanic myths about Näcken, a water spirit. Polska is a folk dance in the Nordic countries.

According to some myths Näcken played enchanted songs on the violin, luring women and children to drown in lakes or streams, but other sources indicate that he was entirely harmless to his audience and attracted not only women and children, but men as well with his sweet songs. There are also differing views if Näcken is wearing clothes or not. His favourite habitat is by waterfalls or rapids.

The building at the top of the hill in the background is Uppsala castle.

Many thanks for the comments on yesterday's blip. We were quite overwhelmed!

M&Z