The concept around the tag refers to the "new collection" that expands all the time and is updated frequently in the museum. The tag was a graphic element that could be easily used and recognisable. The tradition of dressing the statue dates back at least to the 17th century. In the past, the Brussels authorities or the governors-general donated outfits for particular festivities. Back then, only a few outfits were in the collection. Following the First World War, many donors came forward with an outfit, including veterans’ associations. Between 1919 and 1940, Manneken-Pis received one new outfit each year. After World War II, the ketje‘s wardrobe grew on average by five to fifteen outfits per year. By the 1980s, the number of costumes rose to twenty-five. Today, around 20 to 30 new outfits are added on an annual basis. These outfits are an integral part of the heritage of the City of Brussels. Each item is inventoried and preserved like a work of art.

We partnered on