manneken

Manneken, commonly known as Manneken Pis, is a small bronze sculpture in Brussels, Belgium. The name comes from Dutch and translates to "Little Man Peeing." The statue depicts a naked boy urinating into a fountain and has become one of the city’s most recognizable symbols.

The work dates from the early 17th century. It is attributed to the Flemish sculptor Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder and is traditionally dated to around 1619. The original statue has a history of relocation and, in the 19th century, was replaced by a replica after the original was lost or damaged in the course of history. The present statue is a faithful modern reproduction and remains on public display in central Brussels.

Manneken Pis stands at a little over 60 centimeters in height and sits on a simple pedestal within a small fountain basin. It is located at the corner of Rue du Chêne/Eikstraat and Rue de l’Étuve/Steenstraat, near the Grand Place, making it a focal point for visitors exploring the historic center.

A notable aspect of the statue’s public life is its tradition of wearing costumes. Over the years, Manneken Pis has been dressed in hundreds of outfits for festivals, celebrations, and charitable causes, with the wardrobe maintained by the city and various associations. When not on display in a special event, the statue remains a prominent tourist draw and an enduring emblem of Brussels’ playful folklore.

Manneken Pis has inspired related works and is often mentioned alongside other Brussels icons, reflecting the city’s blend of humor, history, and identity.