Orange orbs meet steel and concrete in this unusual beacon. Right here stands the Vuurtoren met sinaasappels Sculpture. It is a whimsical landmark. The sculpture marks a transition. It stands on the edge of the city and polder area. The Vuurtoren met sinaasappels was created by Hans van den Ban. It was placed here in 1993.
The Vuurtoren met sinaasappels acts as a boundary stone. It shows where Amsterdam once met the municipality of Sloten. Imagine this area long ago. This spot marked the edge of Amsterdam. Beyond stretched open polder lands.
Notice the oranges atop the Vuurtoren met sinaasappels. These replace the rotating light of a real lighthouse. At night one of these “oranges” emits a beam of light. It shines on the water. This beam remembers the past. It recalls when this location was a busy transshipment point. Early mornings saw much activity here.
Hans van den Ban incorporated oranges in his earlier work. In his sculpture Pleurant oranges symbolize life. Pleurant depicts stacked crates of oranges. A cloaked figure stands above them.
The Vuurtoren met sinaasappels stands as more than just a marker. It is a symbol of Amsterdam’s growth. It blends the boundary between city and country. Next time you pass by take a moment. Appreciate the artful reminder of Amsterdam’s story. This Vuurtoren met sinaasappels serves as a guidepost. It bridges the past and present.