The Three Smiths statue, Bronze sculpture in central Helsinki, Finland
The Three Smiths statue is a bronze sculpture in central Helsinki depicting three muscular men working at an anvil. Artist Felix Nylund crafted the work with realistic details in bronze and granite.
The work was unveiled in 1932 and still bears marks from bombing in 1944 during the Continuation War. A shrapnel hole visible in the anvil serves as a reminder of that period.
The faces represent people from different circles of Helsinki society, while the bodies were modeled after athletes. This mixture of art world and sports background shows how local figures were brought together to create the work.
The work stands at the intersection of Aleksanterinkatu and Mannerheimintie and is easily reached on foot. The ground beneath is heated, preventing snow and ice buildup during winter.
Each November, students from the University of Helsinki place Santa Claus hats on the three figures during the Wappujoulu celebration. This yearly tradition is a playful gesture that honors the work with humor.
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