Hammering Man, Basel

Located in the bustling Aeschenplatz, Basel's Hammering Man is an iconic kinetic sculpture standing 13.5 meters tall and weighing eight tons. Installed in 1989, this towering figure has been rhythmically swinging its hammer day and night, symbolizing the enduring spirit of workers worldwide.

Created by American artist Jonathan Borofsky, the Hammering Man is part of a global series of similar sculptures found in cities such as Frankfurt and New York. These painted steel giants vary in scale, with some reaching heights of up to 21 meters. The motorized arm of each Hammering Man moves systematically, reflecting Borofsky’s vision of celebrating laborers from all walks of life-whether farmers, miners, craftsmen, or modern-day computer operators.

Structurally engineered by Leslie E. Robertson Associates (LERA), the sculpture’s minimalist design and perpetual motion embody the universal importance of work in shaping societies. Borofsky’s work resonates as a tribute to the individuals who produce the goods and services that sustain communities, making Basel’s Hammering Man not just a landmark but a symbol of shared human effort and perseverance.

Since its installation, the Hammering Man has become a beloved feature of Basel’s urban landscape, admired for both its aesthetic appeal and deeper meaning. Whether you pass by during a hectic weekday or a quiet evening, the tireless figure continues its work, reminding us of the value of labor and the dedication of workers everywhere.