Tree Sawyer

Tree Sawyer is a bronze statue showing a small figure sitting on a tree branch while cutting through it, creating a visual trick with the actual tree behind it. The sculpture captures a moment of focused labor in a surprisingly lifelike pose.

The statue mysteriously appeared in 1989 and became part of Sleutelwerken, a series of public art installations across the city. This marked the beginning of a distinctive approach to placing art in public spaces.

This sculpture is part of a collection by De Onbekende Beeldhouwer, an anonymous artist who placed several statues across Amsterdam. The work reflects how art can surprise people in everyday public spaces.

The statue sits freely accessible at the entrance of Leidsebosje near Hotel Americain, making it easy to find when visiting Leidseplein. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the quietest times for viewing and taking photographs.

A storm once damaged the original branch, but the statue was repaired and returned to its spot, showing how the community values this unusual artwork. Such care reflects the special place this sculpture holds in the neighborhood.

Location: Amsterdam

Inception: 1989

Creator: De Onbekende Beeldhouwer

Part of: Sleutelwerken

Website: https://amsterdam.kunstwacht.nl/kunstwerken/bekijk/6525-boomzagertje

GPS coordinates: 52.36330,4.88067

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:41