In the late 15th century, during the splendid wedding celebrations of Duke Albrecht IV of Bavaria and Kunigunde, daughter of Emperor Maximilian, a young and talented minstrel wandered through Munich. One day, a beautiful yet proud noblewoman heard him play – and soon sought his company more often.
Driven by arrogance, she challenged the minstrel to prove his courage: she tore the necklace from her throat and threw it into the rushing waters of the Isar. Without hesitation, the young man leapt after it – but neither he nor the precious jewel ever returned. Three days later, the noblewoman vanished without a trace.
Since then, so the legend goes, she has lived as the Isarnixe, the siren of the Isar. On quiet nights, her enchanting call is said to echo across the water – a sound no one should follow, for those who do are drawn irresistibly into the depths.
This Munich legend forms the backdrop of the collection Siren’s Lure. The three designs reinterpret key elements of the tale in a modern, graphic language.
The main motif depicts the Isarnixe herself – illustrated in the style of so-called Cadels, a calligraphic ornamentation technique that flourished in the 15th century. Interwoven lines give her figure its mysterious presence.
The second design captures the jewelry sinking to the riverbed – a visual moment of motion and descent, as the necklace tumbles through the water. The shapes seem fluid, almost dancing.
The third pattern portrays the waters of the Isar. Its structure is based on the actual river course between Marienklause Bridge and Reichenbach Bridge – the section where, according to legend, the Isarnixe lures her victims. Lines and currents form a calm, graphic rhythm that reflects the flow of the river. In one variation, the gleam of the lost jewelry flickers between the currents.
Siren’s Lure unites local folklore, historical calligraphic art, and contemporary design – weaving story and style into one cohesive collection.
Discover this collection for licensing on Patterned.