The Brabo Fountain (Brabofontein in Dutch) defines Grote Markt square in the center of Antwerp, the Netherlands. The active fountain is topped by a sculpture of a man throwing a large hand, depicting a local legend that connects the legacy of the city to the past and future.
The Legend of Druon Antigonus
Local legend says that an evil giant named Druon Antigonus lived along the Scheldt River that runs through the city of Antwerp. Charing a fee to anyone passing by, Antigonus cut off one of the hands of anyone who didn’t pay and tossed it into the river.
All of that came to an end when the Roman soldier Silvius Brabo passed by. Said to be a cousin of Julius Caesar, Brabo killed the giant and tossed his own giant hand into the river. This legacy is connected to the name of the city itself, which is said to be a composition of the Dutch words for “hand throwing.”
Designed by Jef Lambeaux in 1887, the Brabo Fountain features a sculpture of Silvius Brabo in the act of throwing the hand of Antigoon. Water spurs from the wrist, while beneath the feet of Brabo lies the head of the giant. The large pedestal of the fountain features depictions of real sea creatures along with a monster and some mermaids holding up a castle, symbolizing Antwerp. It embodies the free waterways of the city.
The piece has become the official symbol of the city of Antwerp, with icons of the statue on displays all over the city. Chocolate hands are on sale throughout Grote Markt square while imagery of the sculpture appears on everything from merchandise to restaurant logos, underscoring the direct economic activities that the icon has enabled.
Bringing a Legacy to Life
While many have argued that the origin of the name of Antwerp is connected to something much different, the impact that the Brabo Fountain has had on the city is undeniable. By bringing a legend to life, the Brabo Fountain showcases what it can look like to create an icon that resonates with audiences of all eras.
