Willy van der Putt ’t Hermenieke’ Bronze Sculpture

A truly dynamic miniature bronze sculpture created by the late Dutch artist Willy van der Putt (1925-1997) celebrates ’t Hermenieke, the most iconic symbol of Bergeijk. During what seems to be an energetic, rhythmic performance, this smaller version of the original public monument shows a trumpet player, a tuba player in addition to a drummer. The piece is made of black patina bronze, fully commemorating the Koninklijke Harmonie Echo der Kempen’s centennial (founded 1887). The award-winning brass band is integral to the village’s cultural identity. The expressive, fluid forms display a wealth of modernist abstraction and folkloric joy, which shows Van der Putt’s training under Wessel Couzijn and Ossip Zadkine.

The full-scale sculpture, which stands for artistic heritage and shared pride, was put in place in 1987 at Bergeijk’s Hof. Van der Putt, a dedicated lifelong resident of Bergeijk, incorporated wealthy local traditions in her work, creating deeply emotive public art. Every collector is provided a concrete piece of Dutch cultural history in each miniature, pristine, and unchipped item, which is perfect for all admirers of postwar sculpture or musical heritage.