Mystical Fox

Kitsune is the Japanese word for fox. Stories depict them as intelligent beings and as possessing magical abilities that increase with their age and wisdom. According to Yōkai folklore, all foxes have the ability to shape shift into men or women. While some folktales speak of kitsune employing this ability to trick others, as foxes in folklore often do, other stories portray them as faithful guardians, friends, lovers, and wives.

Foxes and human beings lived close together in ancient Japan; this companionship gave rise to legends about the creatures. Kitsune have become closely associated with Inari, a Shinto kami or spirit, and serve as its messengers. This role has reinforced the fox’s supernatural significance.

Rafael

A little Kartwork on request for a newly born. It was printed on canvas and given to the parents as a present. Would have worked out nicely as birthcard as well!

The Kingfisher

The Dutch call the Kingfisher ‘IJsvogel’ (Ice bird). Funny, as these bird never even come close to the ice. Instead they live in rain forests, places near a source of water and fish. It’s for this reason also that they are the most amazing fishers! A family of Kingfishers eat up to a 100 fishes each day.