Van Karnebeek Fountain, Hague

The Van Karnebeek Fountain is a historical monument situated at the intersection of Carnegieplein and Scheveningseweg in The Hague, in close proximity to the esteemed Peace Palace. This notable fountain, complete with a basin and an accompanying bench, was inaugurated in 1915 to honor the inauguration of the Peace Palace in 1913. It serves as a tribute to Abraham Pieter Cornelis van Karnebeek, the inaugural president of the Carnegie Foundation, which played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Peace Palace.

The design of the fountain is enriched with earthenware tiles that bear significant names, including the board members of the Carnegie Foundation, the members of the building committee, and the architects Louis Cordonnier and J.A.G. van der Steur, who were instrumental in the design and execution of the Peace Palace.

Crafted by the renowned sculptor Willem Coenraad Brouwer (1877-1933), the fountain is a striking blend of brick, terracotta, and glazed tiles. Brouwer was not only a distinguished sculptor but also played a significant role in the decorative aspects of the Peace Palace. His contribution to the Van Karnebeek Fountain is reflective of his artistic prowess and his influence in early 20th-century Dutch art and architecture. This fountain not only commemorates an important historical event but also stands as a testament to the artistic and cultural heritage of The Hague.