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New York City, New York / Public art

Hans Christian Andersen Statue

A larger-than-life bronze monument to the Danish storyteller Hans Christian Andersen, serving as a vibrant hub for public storytelling in Central Park since 1956.

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Where is the Hans Christian Andersen Statue located?

The statue is located in Central Park on a raised plaza west of Conservatory Lake, at East 74th Street and East Drive.

What is the statue known for?

It is known as a symbol of good relations between Denmark and the United States and has served as a nexus for a vibrant storytelling community since 1956, where readers share fairy tales with children and tourists.

What does the statue look like?

It is a larger-than-life bronze figure depicting Hans Christian Andersen seated on a bench with an open book, with a 2-foot bronze duckling (cygnet) positioned at his feet.

Who created the statue?

The statue was created by Danish-American sculptor George Lober, who was commissioned in 1954. The monument was designed by architect Otto F. Lanmann and sponsored by the Danish American Women’s Association.

Are there any events held at the statue?

Yes, the statue hosts free storytelling gatherings, particularly on summer Saturdays, sponsored by the Hans Christian Andersen Storytelling Center, Inc.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Hans Christian Andersen Statue is a larger-than-life bronze figure depicting the renowned Danish poet and novelist. Commissioned in 1954 and crafted by Danish-American sculptor George Lober, the monument was dedicated on September 18, 1956, by the Danish American Women's Association. The sculpture depicts the author seated on a bench with an open book, symbolizing his legacy as a master of fairy tales. Located on a raised plaza west of Conservatory Lake at East 74th Street and East Drive, the statue has evolved into more than just a monument. Since its dedication, it has served as the nexus for a vibrant storytelling community. On summer Saturdays, New Yorkers and tourists gather around the figure to hear tales from around the world, a tradition established by the Hans Christian Andersen Storytelling Center, Inc. Adding a touch of whimsy, a two-foot-high bronze cygnet, or baby duckling, sits at the author's feet, appearing to listen intently to his words. This particular detail has its own history; the bronze cygnet was stolen in 1973 but was later recovered and secured to the statue. The monument also serves as a diplomatic symbol, representing the good relations between Denmark and the United States. This significance was highlighted in 1976 when Queen Margrethe II of Denmark visited the statue during her American Bicentennial trip, continuing a royal tradition of visiting the site.

Visitor tips

  • Visit on a summer Saturday to potentially catch a free storytelling event sponsored by the Hans Christian Andersen Storytelling Center.
  • Look closely at the author's feet to find the recovered bronze cygnet.
  • Allow a few minutes to enjoy the view of Conservatory Lake from the raised plaza.

Nearby context

Situated in the southeastern area of Central Park near East 74th Street, the statue overlooks the scenic Conservatory Lake, providing a peaceful respite from the city's bustle.

Sources

Evidence and links