Gushing water and faces in opposite directions. Have you ever encountered the Wiel Sculpture here on Rokin street? This stunning work of art stands as a testament to modern creativity in the heart of Amsterdam.
The Wiel Sculpture, crafted by the Dutch Belgian sculptor Mark Manders, was installed on July 31, 2017. This makes it relatively new, adding a fresh layer to Amsterdam’s rich artistic landscape.
The Wiel Sculpture features two heads facing in opposite directions. Water gently seeps from the top of the heads, flowing down their shoulders. It continues across the plinth and then spills onto the ground.
On warmer days, this creates a pleasant cooling effect, transforming the surrounding courtyard into a peaceful oasis. Imagine the gentle sound of water as it cascades down the sculpture, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the city’s hustle.
Initially, there were plans to place the statue of Queen Wilhelmina on Damrak street. However, because the sculpture turned out larger than expected, it was unveiled on Rokin street in 1972. The elegant statue of Wilhelmina in Amsterdam, riding side saddle, deserves a better setting.
Theresia van der Pant sculpted the statue of Queen Wilhelmina. The money was provided by the population of Amsterdam. Theresia van der Pant was most experienced sculpting animals. She therefore decided on a statue of the younger queen, riding horseback. Wilhelmina’s daughter Queen Juliana assisted Van der Pant, suggesting what clothes Wilhelmina should wear.
The statue portrays Queen Wilhelmina riding horseback. Wilhelmina was Queen of the Netherlands from 1890 until her abdication in 1948. Her reign saw the First and the Second World Wars. Wilhelmina was generally credited with maintaining Dutch neutrality during the First World War. Following the German invasion of the Netherlands in 1940, Wilhelmina fled to Britain and took charge of the Dutch government in exile.
So as you stand before the Wiel Sculpture, take a moment to appreciate its unique design and the refreshing ambiance it creates. It is more than just a sculpture. It is an oasis of calm, a place to pause and reflect amidst the vibrant energy of Amsterdam.