Jeanneke Pis

Brussels - Jeanneke Pis

Jeanneke Pis is a modern fountain and statue in Brussels, Belgium, which is a counterpart to the city's famous Manneken Pis. Created in 1987 by sculptor Denis-Adrien Debouvrie, Jeanneke Pis is a small bronze sculpture depicting a little girl in the act of urinating. Situated at the end of a dead-end street near the Rue des Bouchers, it is less known than its male counterpart but has nonetheless become a tourist attraction and a symbol of the city's irreverent sense of humor.

History and Description

The statue was commissioned to offer a female counterpart to the Manneken Pis, which has been a part of Brussels folklore for centuries. Jeanneke Pis is located behind a grill on the Impasse de la Fidélité/Getrouwheidsgang, just a few steps away from the city's famous Delirium Café. The figure is set behind a red iron gate and can be somewhat difficult to find without prior knowledge of its location.

Standing approximately 50 centimeters tall, the statue is a representation of a young girl with her hair in pigtails, squatting and smiling as she urinates. The work is meant to symbolize innocence and the joy of living. It was funded by donations from the businesses located in the neighborhood where it now stands.

Cultural Significance

Jeanneke Pis serves as a commentary on gender equality, offering a playful female counterpart to the more famous Manneken Pis. The statue has sparked conversations about gender representation in public art and the importance of balancing historical narratives with modern sensibilities.

In addition to its cultural and social significance, Jeanneke Pis has become a part of various local traditions, much like Manneken Pis. Visitors often leave coins in the fountain for good luck, mirroring the traditions associated with other famous fountains around the world.

Tourism

Despite its less prominent location, Jeanneke Pis attracts tourists who are eager to see all aspects of Brussels' quirky heritage. Its proximity to the Delirium Café, known for its extensive selection of beers, adds to the location's appeal, making it a popular spot for those exploring the city's culinary and cultural offerings.

Controversies

The installation of Jeanneke Pis has not been without controversy. Some critics argue that the statue does not have the historical significance of the Manneken Pis and that its creation was more of a commercial endeavor than a cultural one. Despite these criticisms, Jeanneke Pis has been embraced by many locals and visitors as a beloved part of Brussels' landscape.

See Also

• Manneken Pis
• Zinneke Pis
• Public art
• Tourism in Belgium