Seven stories, shared across generations
Inspired by the magic of Norwegian folklore, the Tale Collection embodies the art of Nordic storytelling. The collection features seven sculptural pendants, each capturing a central character from traditional Norwegian folktales: the historic, mythical fables carried through generations.
The sculptural figures are handcrafted in-house. First, handcasted and modelled in clay to form the abstract figures: a form later translated into jewellery. Each Tale pendant is crafted from 100% Recycled silver with a white rhodium plating: the signature material throughout our collections.
Discover the full collection, exclusively available online, in Tom Wood stores and at Dover Street Market London.
THE GOAT - ‘Bukken’
A symbol of stubborn courage, resourcefulness, and independent spirit. Famously immortalised in the tale of The Three Billy Goats Gruff, goats are depicted as clever strategists who refuse to be bullied by the perils of the wilderness. Bold and persistent, they use youthful wit and brute force to outsmart and defeat terrifying monsters like trolls: proving that determination can overcome any obstacle.
The Fox – ‘Reven’
In Norwegian folklore, the fox is the ultimate clever trickster of the forest. Using sharp wit, flattery, and sheer audacity, he consistently outsmarts larger, stronger animals like the bear and the wolf to steal food or escape danger. While occasionally punished for his greed, the fox is celebrated as a brilliant survivor who proves that intelligence and adaptability will always triumph over brute force.
The Hare – ‘Haren’
In Norwegian folklore, the hare is the quintessential underdog: a swift, anxious, and fragile creature who relies entirely on speed and quick thinking to survive. Often portrayed as a nervous but clever figure, he frequently outruns predators like the fox or the wolf, embodying the triumph of the small and vulnerable over the large and menacing.
The Troll – ‘Trollet’
In Norwegian folklore, the troll is the ultimate embodiment of the wild, untamed wilderness: a lumbering, dim-witted giant made of stone and moss who dwells in remote mountains and deep forests. Often possessing multiple heads or the ability to turn to stone in the sunlight, they are fierce hoarders who represent the treacherous forces of nature.
The Nixie – ‘Nøkken’
Known as a sinister, shape-shifting water spirit, the Nixie haunts dark lakes, deep rivers, and misty ponds. Representing the hidden dangers of the water, he frequently disguises himself as a beautiful white horse to lure children onto his back, or uses enchanting violin music to mesmerize unsuspecting travelers to the water's edge. Once his victims are close enough, the Nixie drags them down into the depths, though legend says he can be defeated or banished if someone calls out his true name.
The Bear – ‘Bjørnen’
Revered as the majestic "King of the Forest”, the bear is a powerful, honourable, and gullible giant with a human-like soul. Though deeply respected for his immense strength and wisdom, traditional fairy tales frequently show him being outsmarted by clever tricksters, most famously explaining how the fox tricked him into losing his long tail in the ice.
THE WOOD NYMPH - ’HULDRA’
In Norwegian folklore, the Huldra is a beautiful, shape-shifting forest spirit who guards the untamed wilderness and lures unsuspecting men into the mountains. From the front, she appears as a flawless, captivating woman, but she is betrayed by her secret: a cow's tail (or a hollow, bark-like back) that she desperately tries to hide. She brings immense good fortune and wealth to those who treat her with respect: but crossing her or breaking her trust invites swift, terrifying vengeance.
THE HERITAGE OF NORWEGIAN FOLKLORE
Norwegian folktales stand at the heart of our heritage. For generations, the cherished fables were shared to explain the mysterious forces of nature and teach moral wisdom. In the 19th century, the stories were collected and preserved for the first time by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and Jørgen Moe. From towering mountain trolls and mythical nymphs to noble, powerful bears, these ancient characters provide the soul behind each figure in The Tale Collection.
