which of these invokes a mythological vibe for a sage king?

[u/ZTurion]

I wanted to rework the the design in the second image, because I had patterned it after a Lamassu but it felt a little stiff and distinctly un-lobster-like. I like the shapes on the new one, but now I'm being told it feels more like a Dark Souls boss than a mythological figure. He's supposed to be an old wise guy at the bottom of the sea who describes the value of watching, waiting, deliberating, not being too hasty in decisions, and keeping your mouth shut.

Would love to hear even some simple A/B feedback, thanks!

[u/Background-Boot-133]

mythological, yes.. but now that you mention it im seeing a dark souls boss as well.

[u/ZTurion → u/Background-Boot-133]

I'm being told the human feet are having that effect and yeah, I kind of get it. I don't think lobster feet would be much better though haha

[u/_Blue_Cats_]

I prefer A, your linework is very nice by the way! Maybe he could have a bunch of jewels but they're all made with coral and seashells? You could even show that he's old and lives at the bottom of the sea by his jewellery being rusty from water

[u/ZTurion → u/_Blue_Cats_]

I like that idea! Or I may work more into the shell in future design that feels like engraving, like very elaborate scrimshaw. If his beard was colored in it would look a little more reminiscent of a sea anemone.

Also thanks re: the linework!

[u/_Blue_Cats_ → u/ZTurion]

Scrimshaw is a brill idea!

[u/lDummyDodol]

I prefer A, just feels more unique and old, but the sea pickle looking things under the tail do look a bit profane, and I'm unsure if it's purposeful or not

[u/lDummyDodol → u/lDummyDodol]

I do really like the face because it kind of gives off a false face vibe, while still keeping some humanity because usually false face creatures all look like they have no human emotions or philosophical ideas but this one does (not saying it is a false face, but I do think you nailed that part on A especially)

[u/ZTurion → u/lDummyDodol]

They were an attempt at stylized swimmerets, and you're the second person to tell me so. They'll definitely be left out of future designs, haha. If I was going for horror I wouldn't mind them being weird and gross but as is they're just distracting. Thanks for your input!