Sylphs are mythical creatures often associated with the element of air. They are typically depicted as graceful, ethereal beings that can be invisible or take on a delicate, human-like form. In various traditions, sylphs are considered to be guardians of the skies and are linked to the natural world, embodying the qualities of lightness and freedom. The concept of sylphs originated in the 16th century, particularly in the works of alchemists and philosophers like Paracelsus. They are often mentioned in literature and art, symbolizing the spirit of the air and the beauty of nature. Sylphs are part of a broader category of elemental beings, which also includes undines (water), gnomes (earth), and salamanders (fire).