The Devil (Fanden) by Kent Stück (Original Painting)

Original painting of “The Devil”, painted with acrylics on canvas. Mounted on sealed wooden panel and varnished with satin finish.
Framed with wire on the back for hanging.

According to old scandinavian folklore, the Devil as a creature was a reaction to the entry of Christianity into the north, and the creature was a figure that was often associated with the upper class of society.
A figure who wore clothes that indicated status.

However, the devil was fairly easy to recognise, as he had sharp canines, horns and a tail which he tried to keep hidden in clothes and under a hat.
If you encountered the Devil, it was not uncommon that he would try to make a deal that involved giving up your soul in exchange for riches or the temptations of the flesh.
The Devil cannot be equated with Satan in a religious sense, since the Devil is not evil as such, but more of a tempter – and if you are cunning enough, the Devil can be cheated in his own game.
The Devil is associated with sin, though, and the souls he harvests are brought to the gates of Hell where the Devil goes no further. On the other hand, this is where you would find the Devil’s Great Grandmother, who keeps track of the damned souls before they are let through the gates and into Hell.