Men at Sea

L'Homme rencontre la Mer is a sculpture on the coast near Esbjerg in Denmark, made of four white concrete figures. Each figure stands nine meters tall and faces the North Sea in an upright posture, arms at its sides, as though observing the sea.

Svend Wiig Hansen designed the four figures in the early 1990s for the harbor anniversary of Esbjerg. They were placed on the beach in 1995, marking 100 years since the modern harbor was founded.

The monumental work draws inspiration from Easter Island statues to symbolize the relationship between humanity and the ocean.

The sculpture stands directly on the open beach, where wind often blows strongly and weather changes quickly. Warm clothing is recommended, especially in autumn and winter if you plan to stay longer.

The four figures sit on a low concrete base that is sometimes surrounded by water at high tide. Those who come early in the morning often see few other visitors and can feel the silence of the place.

Location: Esbjerg Municipality

Inception: October 28, 1995

Creator: Svend Wiig Hansen

Official opening: October 28, 1995

Made from material: concrete

GPS coordinates: 55.48778,8.41116

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:39