This sticker is an interpretation of the Oak King, a figure in Celtic mythology.

According to the lore, every year on the Winter Solstice, the Holly King is challenged and beaten by the Oak King, who reigns until the Summer Solstice, when he is challenged beaten by the returning Holly King, in an eternal cycle of the seasons.

This little illustration was made by Anna Neshyba in 2024, who loved the story of the Oak King and the Holly King growing up. It has been adapted into a sticker design, featuring warm browns, greens and yellows to symbolize the warming months during the Oak King’s reign. Eventually Neshyba will create a Holly King to accompany him, but for now please enjoy!

Neshyba, Anna. The Oak King, 2024. Digital Mediums.