Proosje van Schiedam

Schiedam is a city known for its gin production, sporting three large factories as well as the longest tradition in the craft. This tradition was personified into a colorful mascot that is now beloved in the city.

Proosje (a play on the Dutch word for cheers) is a pilgrim-like comic book figure who loves drinking Jenever (Dutch gin). He was created by Harr Wiegman in 1975 as part of the 700-year celebration of the city's founding. 

Harr and Proosje were a major influence on the city, as they are for a large part responsible for Schiedam embracing its gin as part of its identity. 

The statue was constructed by Wiegman in 2011 and placed on a bench in the city square, cheersing towards passersby.