Christophorus is the imposing work of art that was installed for the first edition of Beaufort. Since 2003, this pinewood giant can be admired in all its glory amidst the dunes of De Panne.
Artist
Gerhard Lentinck
Photo Gallery
What is 'Christophorus'
Measuring almost 7 metres tall, it stands on the edge of the sea as if it has just walked out of the sea. The torso of this giant has been transformed into a seat and reflects the figure of Christophorus, based on the legendary story of the giant who carried pilgrims across a wide dangerous river. He is the great border crosser in the changing transition area between land and water, between solid and liquid. Christophorus therefore fits in perfectly with the coastal environment. Over the years, the wood of the wading giant acquired a beautiful grey patina.
Did you knew that:
- Christophorus or Christopher ('Christ-bearer') is a saint about whom various legends are told.
- The most famous legend of Christophorus is that he was a giant and wanted to serve only the most powerful king (i.e. Christ). He did this by carrying people across a large river on his broad back. One day, he had to lift a child across the water, but as he tried, the child became heavier and heavier and Christophorus almost collapsed. Then the child revealed who he was; Christ himself. He baptised the giant Christophorus.
- St. Christopher is the patron saint against sudden death and is especially venerated as the patron saint of pilgrims, travellers and road users, and often prayed to during floods and storms.
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