Jozef Israëls Monument, Bronze sculpture depicting Jozef Israëls best known work '''Passing Mother's Grave'''
The Jozef Israëls Monument is a bronze and stone sculpture in Groningen depicting a fisherman returning from the sea with his two children beside him. The figures carry nets and stand on a high stone base, while a cross nearby marks the grave of their wife and mother.
Sculptor Abraham Hesselink created the monument in 1922 to honor painter Jozef Israëls, who was born in Groningen. It was inspired by Israëls' 1856 painting 'To Mothers Tomb' and suffered damage in 1943 when Nazi forces targeted it because of the artist's Jewish heritage, though it was restored and unveiled again in 1946.
The monument depicts a fishing family returning from their work, reflecting the honest labor and everyday moments that painter Jozef Israëls valued in his art. This scene captures the traditions of coastal communities that shaped Groningen's identity for generations.
The monument is located in central Groningen near Hereplein and is easy to reach on foot. At about 15 feet (4.5 meters) tall, it can be viewed from multiple angles, allowing you to observe the details of the figures and nets clearly.
The sculpture was destroyed by Nazis in 1943, but the broken pieces were carefully preserved and later reassembled by artist Willem Valk. This restoration transformed the monument into a symbol of resilience and remembrance against wartime violence.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
