Mermaid copenhagen

The Little Mermaid of Copenhagen is an iconic bronze statue depicting the character from Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, located at the Langelinie promenade.

About this subject

The Little Mermaid statue, known as Den Lille Havfrue in Danish, is one of Denmark's most iconic landmarks. Unveiled on August 23, 1913, it was commissioned by brewer Carl Jacobsen, son of the founder of Carlsberg, after he was captivated by a ballet based on Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale. Sculptor Edvard Eriksen created the figure using his wife, Eline Eriksen, as the model for the body, and ballerina Ellen Price as inspiration for the face.

The statue stands only 1.25 meters tall and weighs about 175 kilograms. Since its placement on a rock at the Langelinie promenade in Copenhagen, it has been repeatedly vandalized, including being decapitated twice and having its right arm sawn off. Despite these incidents, it remains a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year, many of whom are surprised by its modest size.

The sculpture depicts a mermaid who, out of love for a human prince, makes a deal with a sea witch to gain legs, suffering immense pain with every step and ultimately failing to win the prince's love. Sitting on a rock, she stares melancholically out to sea. Replicas exist worldwide, including one in Punta Arenas, Chile, and another in Copenhagen, Canada, but the original remains the most emblematic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who created the Little Mermaid statue?

It was sculpted by Edvard Eriksen, with Eline Eriksen as body model and Ellen Price for the face.

Why is the statue so small?

The statue is only 1.25 meters tall, reflecting the intimate style and the commissioner's choice.

Has the statue been vandalized?

Yes, multiple times, including decapitation and arm cutting, but always restored.