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Mermaids and the Kraken - enduring legends of the sea

Design Works is launching two new exciting designs featuring some of the most widely known and loved sea creatures, the mermaid and the kraken! These mythical creatures represent the mystery and dangers of the sea and endure in popular culture today. Read on to find out more:

mermaid statue on rock

(image source https://mermaidsofearth.com/mermaid-statues-mermaid-sculptures/public/the-little-mermaid-statue-copenhagen/)

Mermaids are typically depicted as mythical creatures with the upper body of a woman and the lower body of a fish. These enchanting beings are often associated with the sea, oceans, and other bodies of water. In Greek mythology, the sirens although not strictly mermaids, were known for their enchanting voices, which lured sailors to their doom. Mermaids have been a part of European folklore for centuries. One well-known story is that of the Little Mermaid, popularized by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale and later adapted by Disney. In Andersen's version, the mermaid falls in love with a human prince and makes a deal with a sea witch to become human, sacrificing her voice in the process.

In Asian cultures, there are various mermaid-like beings. In Japanese folklore, for example, there's the "ningyo," a fish-like creature with a human face. These creatures are often seen as harbingers of misfortune or omens of disaster. In the Caribbean and Latin America, there are stories of the "La Sirena," a beautiful mermaid who may either be a helpful or dangerous presence. These tales often reflect the cultural and maritime history of the region.

kraken attacking ship

(image source https://www.medievalists.net/2015/01/kraken-myth-encounters-science/)

The term "kraken" refers to a legendary sea monster, often depicted as a giant octopus or squid, said to dwell off the coasts of Norway and Greenland. The kraken is a prominent figure in Scandinavian folklore and mythology, and it has captured the imaginations of people for centuries.

The kraken is typically described as an enormous creature capable of dragging entire ships and their crews beneath the waves with its powerful tentacles. Various myths and stories have been told about encounters with the kraken, adding to its mystique and fear-inspiring reputation.

While there is no scientific evidence supporting the existence of a giant sea monster like the kraken, it has become a popular element in literature, art, and popular culture. The kraken has appeared in numerous books, movies, and other forms of entertainment, often as a formidable and otherworldly adversary.

Our colourful Mermaid design was inspired by the new Little Mermaid movie, as mermaids search a ship wreck for treasures to keep. Our Salty Dog shirt was inspired by old sea captain Davy Jones from Pirates of the Caribbean. Our favourite pet dog Ol'Mate starred as a Salty Dog.

Enjoy our fun shirts and follow the links below to view our new designs! 

new shirts

click here for mermaid and here for salty dog shirts

 

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