Slavic mermaid

thingiverse

The article you provided appears to be an encyclopedic entry about mermaids, covering their history, cultural significance, and appearances in art. Here are some key points from the text: 1. Mermaids have been depicted in various forms of art throughout history, including ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, medieval European carvings, and modern paintings. 2. The concept of mermaids has its roots in ancient mythology, with the earliest surviving manuscripts depicting sirens as bird-women. 3. In some cultures, mermaids are associated with good fortune or prosperity, while in others they are seen as symbols of danger or temptation. 4. Mermaids have been featured in literature and art throughout history, including works by Shakespeare, Hans Christian Andersen, and J.M. Barrie. 5. The modern concept of mermaids as half-human, half-fish creatures emerged in the 19th century, influenced by European folklore and fairy tales. Some interesting facts mentioned in the article include: * A 9th-century bestiary depicts the siren as a mermaid, while the text still describes a bird-woman. * The phrase "mermaid wept tears that became pearls" is quoted from a Chinese literary compilation, but it's unclear if this refers to an actual mermaid or just a metaphorical concept. * A Japanese folktale tells the story of a prince who is saved by a mermaid from a shipwreck, but he mistakenly believes she is a princess. The article also mentions several artworks featuring mermaids, including paintings and sculptures by artists such as Arnold Böcklin, John Collier, and Howard Pyle.