Niblis of the Urn

Niblis of the Urn was released in early 2012 as part of the Dark Ascension expansion for the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Set within the gothic horror-inspired plane of Innistrad, the card reflects the set's thematic focus on the struggle between humanity and the encroaching supernatural forces of vampires, werewolves, and ghosts. As a spirit creature, it serves to reinforce the set's mechanical emphasis on graveyard utility and the eerie atmospheric design established by Wizards of the Coast.

The card’s artwork was illustrated by Igor Kieryluk, who was commissioned to capture the spectral, ethereal quality of the creature. Kieryluk’s design leans into the somber, blue-tinted aesthetic consistent with the spirits of the Innistrad block, emphasizing the ghost’s mournful connection to its funerary vessel. Upon its release, the card was received as a functional addition to limited play environments, noted for its ability to provide repeatable utility through its tap ability, typical of the tactical design found throughout the expansion.