What if this statue embodied the very spirit of Brussels itself? This is De Matkop Sculpture also known as Madame Chapeau. Let’s delve into the story of this intriguing artwork.
De Matkop Sculpture isn’t just another statue. It represents the self-deprecating humor so typical of Brussels. The statue captures a beloved character from a play.
Amélie Van Beneden is her real name. But everyone calls her Madame Chapeau or Mrs. Hat. She’s a character in the play Bossemans et Coppenolle. Joris d’Hanswyck and Paul Van Stalle wrote it back in 1938.
Traditionally a man plays Madame Chapeau. She speaks in Brusseleer. It’s a near-extinct dialect of Dutch. It has a strong French influence.
In 2000, the Brabant Federation of Socialist Mutuality commissioned De Matkop Sculpture. Tom Frantzen created it. You’ll find her at the corner of Rue du Midi and Rue des Moineaux. She might not tower like other monuments. But she embodies the city’s character.
Notice her bow-legged stance. See the spectacles perched on her nose? De Matkop Sculpture is counting coins in her purse. A curious rabbit peeps out of her wicker handbag. So does a green onion. These details add to her charm. They tell a story of everyday life.
De Matkop Sculpture is a tribute to zwanze. This is the Brusselian sense of humor. It’s self-deprecating and often ironic. The statue reminds us not to take ourselves too seriously.
The artist Tom Frantzen also created Zinneke. Zinneke is a statue of a mongrel dog. Frantzen also made De Vaartkapoen. It depicts a policeman falling head over heels.
Brussels is a treasure trove of sculptures. Many celebrate historical figures. Others honor cartoon characters. Some, like Manneken Pis, are world-famous. De Matkop Sculpture adds to this rich tapestry.
Next time you’re in Brussels, seek out De Matkop Sculpture. Take a moment to appreciate her quirky charm. She is more than a statue. She’s a symbol of Brussels. She is a reminder to embrace the city’s unique spirit.
The statue invites us to laugh at ourselves. It encourages us to find humor in everyday life. De Matkop Sculpture stands as a testament to Brussels’ playful heart. It’s a heart that beats with zwanze.