Welcome to Leidsebosje, a tranquil oasis nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, where you’ll discover a hidden gem known as the Woodcutter (Boomzagertje) statue amidst the serene surroundings. This subtle yet captivating sculpture, tucked away in the park’s greenery, tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and the deep-rooted connection between the city and its natural surroundings.
Join us as we uncover the charm and significance of the woodcutter, inviting you to appreciate the subtle beauty within Amsterdam’s hidden corners.
During the 1980s and 1990s, an anonymous artist placed six sculptures throughout Amsterdam, operating only at night. One of them was the Little Woodcutter.
What To Expect
Amsterdam’s Leidsebosje has a subtle statue called “The Little Woodcutter” (Boomzagertje). It portrays a male figure sawing a thick, overhanging branch. Until October 2019, the statue was situated in the southernmost plane tree, and the woodcutter is depicted bending forward between his legs as he saws.
The little iron statue was erected on January 30, 1989, alongside other sculptures such as the violinist emerging from the ground in the Stopera. The sculptor of this piece is unknown to the public, but it is believed to be part of a collection of anonymous statues in Amsterdam created by The Unknown Sculptor.
The municipality has access to these images but must keep the artist’s identity confidential.
It is not possible for the man to saw off the branch without risking falling off himself. He is wearing an alpine hat, which he has lost before, and the saw has also broken in the past. Additionally, someone else has made repairs to the saw without his knowledge. The saw appears to be embedded in the old branch, which the tree has grown around.
In October 2019, a branch had broken between the trunk and the statue. It was temporarily tied to an overhead branch before being sawn off at the trunk and sent for repair.
In May 2020, the statuette was repositioned on a different tree branch.
Getting There
Use the Google Maps below to get directions for driving, public transit, walking, ride-sharing, cycling, flight, or motorcycle from your current location to the Little Woodcutter. You can also use the map to explore the surrounding areas to find something interesting.
Some tourists think Amsterdam is a city of sin, but in truth, it is a city of freedom. And in freedom, most people find sin.
John Green
