Leikkivät pojat III / Playing Boys III

The lyrical and stylized forms of Classicism are characteristic of Viktor Jansson’s (1886-1958) sculptures; sophistication and grace in balance with the solidity and weight of the materials. The composition of the fountain also known as ‘The Pioneer’s Well’, is well balanced. The boys’ wild play on top of the globe leaves an impression which is full of life yet melancholy. The world of play, of endless joy is forbidden to adults. The work’s indirect message is that an artist can cross the line between children and adults, a line drawn to separate play and reality.

The fountain was unveiled in 1943. It was donated by the industrialist Anders Kramer. The initial words of F.M. Franzén’s poem ‘Glädjens ögonblick’ (Moment of happiness) are written on the globe: “Sörj ej den gryende dagen förut” (Do not mourn for tomorrow). The work is cast in bronze and it is 133 cm high. The architect Bertel Jung designed its red granite basin. The work belongs to the City of Helsinki’s art collection, which is managed and curated by HAM.