A symbol of fertility and prosperity

You should definitely turn your gaze to the bas-relief above the only remaining gate of Het Steen. Semini, as Antwerp citizens call the figurine, has stood as a symbol of fertility since time immemorial. It is believed to date from the second century and to be the oldest relief in Antwerp. A striking feature of Semini was once his phallus. And thus, according to popular belief, the statue is therefore a symbol of fertility and prosperity. In 1587, following Antwerp's recapture by the Spaniards, the pagan statue was desecrated by the Jesuits. This destructive act makes it difficult to recognise and its exact origin remains a mystery.

In the wake of Lange Wapper and Druon Antigoon

The city's folkloric history that is so rich for interpretation was a gratifying source in artist Sharon Van Overmeiren's commission to create a new sculpture. De Gulle Waard/The Generous Gatekeeper now stands in the courtyard of Het Steen. The name references folkloric characters such as Lange Wapper and Druon Antigoon, former residents and guardians of Het Steen. The artist intertwines various historical and visual references in her unique sculpture.

Meaning and symbolism

Be sure to take a closer look at the work of art. The wrought-iron pedestal references both the flowing river nearby and the historical function of Het Steen as a prison. Can you see the jewels, chains, keys and locks in the bronze base? They point to the building as a repository of treasures and wealth and as a bastion of power and prosperity. The dragons and snakes are inspired by a historical interpretation of the Semini figurine, in which the figure's legs were regarded as snakes. Looking upwards, you see the wide open arms of Semini. The ceramic totem contains motifs of ears of grain, ancient symbols of fertility and fortune. You will also find hearts in it, symbols for love and passion.

Make a wish

De Gulle Waard welcomes visitors to Het Steen with a big smile and wide open arms. Feel free to whisper a wish to the statue, just as women used to visit the Semini statue to beseech the figurine for fertility. Who knows what magical powers De Gulle Waard has in store for you? And just like that, you revive the history and symbolism of the centuries-old Semini statue.

About the artist

Sharon Van Overmeiren (Antwerp, 1985) is a respected sculptor. She freely combines forms and motifs derived from a myriad of sources in her work, from classical antiquity to pop culture, and from medieval heraldry to pre-Columbian sculpture. She thus creates what Van Overmeiren herself calls 'fictional sculptures', figures whose story or identity can never be captured in a single viewing. Van Overmeiren grew up near Het Steen.

The sculpture was commissioned by Visit Antwerp in cooperation with Kunst in de Stad - Middelheim Museum and in dialogue with the Antwerp Komitee Semini In Ere association.