Iceland’s best-known sculptor, Einar Jónsson (1874–1954), designed the plans for this museum, which was built after he donated his works to the Icelandic people. Some say it is his biggest sculpture. It served as his studio, as a gallery for his works, and even as his home. Often inspired by Icelandic folklore, Jónsson's sculptures depict classical human and mythological figures in wildly imaginative and unorthodox poses. He identified with the romantic symbolists, and his sculptures speak in allegories, personifications, and ciphers. In the 1930s, W. H. Auden mockingly summed up his work as “Time pulling off the boots of Eternity with one hand while keeping the wolf from the door with the other.” Outside is a small park with 26 bronze castings of his work, well worth a look even if the rest of the museum is closed.
Reykjavik
Travel Guide
Reykjavik› Attraction
Einar Jónsson Museum
Eiriksgata, Iceland
Our Rating
Neighborhood
East of the Old City
Hours
Jun-Sept 15 Tues-Sun 1-5pm; Sept 16-Nov and Feb-May Sat-Sun 2-5pm
Phone
551-3797
Prices
Admission 1000kr adults; 300kr senior/students; children 15 and younger free. Free admission to sculpture park
Web site
Einar Jónsson Museum

Map
Eiriksgata Iceland ReykjavikNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.