Popular Amsterdam statue has legs broken

One of the most popular statues in Amsterdam was knocked over on Tuesday afternoon when a lorry reversed across the square on which it stands.


Het Lieverdje (the sweetie or darling), made by sculptor Carel Kneulman (1915-2008), has stood on the Spui since 1960 and depicts a street boy. Over the years it has been the focus of various demonstrations. It has been kidnapped by students from Groningen, painted, dressed up and set on fire.
Tuesday’s accident has broken the boy’s legs and he has been taken to a bronze workshop for repair. A spokesman for the central borough council said Het Lieverdje will be back as soon as possible.

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