Gaze upon the majestic Jan-Wellem-Denkmal. Its bronze gleam catches the light. This isn’t just a statue. It’s a story carved in metal. A story of power ambition and artistry. The Jan-Wellem-Denkmal stands proudly in Dusseldorf’s Marktplatz. It depicts Johann Wilhelm II also known as Jan Wellem. He was Duke of Julich and Berg and later treasurer of the Holy Roman Empire.
The monument itself is a breathtaking example of Baroque equestrian statuary. Created by the Flemish sculptor Gabriel de Grupello between 1703 and 1711 it’s a testament to Jan Wellem’s reign. The original design called for a much taller pedestal. Allegorical figures of lions were even cast. These lions were meant to symbolize defeated vices. Sadly the grander pedestal was never realized. The current design shows Jan Wellem in full armor. He sits regally atop a powerful horse. This horse is shown in a majestic walking pose. The patina is a rich green.
The Jan-Wellem-Denkmal has faced several threats over the years. In 1716 after Jan Wellem’s death there were calls to demolish it. French revolutionary troops planned to remove it in 1795. Even during the economically difficult 1920s there were discussions of melting it down for scrap metal. To protect it from destruction during World War II the statue was moved to a mountain tunnel outside of the city. After the war it was returned to its place of honor.
Around 1988 the Jan-Wellem-Denkmal underwent a major restoration. Now the entire ensemble is under protection. This includes the statue the pedestal the ornate cast-iron fence and its 252 gilded finials. Also protected are the four corner lamps. The Latin inscription on the base though historically inaccurate is a part of its protected status. It doesn’t accurately reflect the origin of the statue’s funding. It was not donated by grateful citizens. Instead Jan Wellem himself commissioned the work from Grupello.
Today the Jan-Wellem-Denkmal is one of Dusseldorf’s most recognizable landmarks. It stands as a powerful symbol of the city’s rich history and artistic heritage. The Jan-Wellem-Denkmal dominates the historic Marktplatz along with the city hall. This trapezoidal square is approximately 50 by 50 meters and is almost completely surrounded by buildings. The north and west sections are dominated by the city hall complex. Now the space is largely used for civic events and official ceremonies. Its use as a market square has diminished over time. The Jan-Wellem-Denkmal continues to capture the hearts of visitors and residents. It represents Dusseldorf’s proud past and its enduring spirit.