Gezicht op de fontein Manneken Pis 1834 - 1862

Henri Borremans made this print of the Manneken Pis fountain in Brussels sometime in the 19th century. The image presents a seemingly straightforward depiction of a city square, but it also hints at the role that public art plays in shaping a city's identity. Brussels, at this time, had a vibrant civic culture, with public monuments and spaces becoming important symbols of local identity. The Manneken Pis, a small bronze sculpture of a boy urinating into a fountain, embodies the city's irreverent spirit. Borremans' print shows it as a popular attraction, surrounded by curious onlookers. Understanding this image means delving into Brussels’ unique history, a place caught between French and Dutch cultural influences, and whose civic pride took unique forms. By consulting historical archives, local newspapers, and other documents, we can better understand the social and political forces that shaped both the city and its art. Art, in this sense, is more than just an aesthetic object; it's a reflection of the society that creates and cherishes it.