LUTIN
A lutin is a French name for a hobgoblin common in French folklore and fairy tales. The lutin is either male or female; a female is called a lutine. The lutin is comparable to house spirits such as brownies, and to elves, fairies, gnomes, imps, leprechauns, pixies, and sprites. The lutin has a trickster nature. It can choose to be invisible. In some tales, it becomes invisible by donning a red cap with two feathers.
French immigrants to Quebec, Canada, spread lutin lore there. Lutins are fond of taking animal forms, especially pets and common animals such as rabbits, and also especially white animals. Lutins can control the weather and be either good or bad. Good lutins will perform personal services, while bad lutins will cause domestic upsets, misplace objects, and make messes. Salt spilled on the ground or floor will prevent lutins from crossing it.
See also : Sinistrari, Lodovico Maria.
The Encyclopedia of Demons and Demonology – Written by Rosemary Ellen Guiley – Copyright © 2009 by Visionary Living, Inc.