The bust of shipowner Wilhelm Wilhelmsen stands at Gunnarsbø in Tønsberg. Created by Norwegian sculptor Carl Edvard Paulsen in 1940, the artwork is identified in art-historical sources as a portrait of shipping company founder Wilhelm Wilhelmsen (1839–1910). The monument commemorates a man who helped establish Tønsberg as an important maritime town. It offers visitors a glimpse into the town's shipping history in a peaceful green setting.
A maritime memorial at Gunnarsbø
The sculpture stands beside the historic Gunnarsbø estate, once home to the Wilhelmsen family. Cast in bronze, the bust portrays the shipowner and was created by Tønsberg sculptor Carl Edvard Paulsen. Completed in 1940, it is one of several monuments Paulsen created to commemorate people who played important roles in Norwegian maritime and local history. Take a moment to see the bust while exploring Gunnarsbø Park. The park combines historic buildings, green spaces and reminders of the Wilhelmsen family's connection to Tønsberg.
The founder of Wilh. Wilhelmsen
Morten Wilhelm Wilhelmsen was born in Tønsberg in 1839. After studying commerce and gaining business experience in several European countries, he established a shipbroking company in his hometown in 1861. In 1865, he purchased the sailing ship Mathilde, marking the beginning of the company's development into an important shipping business. By 1886, Wilhelm Wilhelmsen had become Tønsberg's largest shipowner, operating eleven sailing vessels.
He was also involved in local politics and served as mayor of Tønsberg. Wilhelmsen died in 1910, but the company continued under the next generation.
His sons Halfdan and Wilhelm Wilhelmsen both played important roles in the family business and helped develop modern international shipping.
Gunnarsbø and the Wilhelmsen family
The Wilhelmsen family made a significant contribution to Tønsberg's commercial and maritime development. In 1878, Wilhelm Wilhelmsen had the grand family residence Gunnarsbø built. The property remained connected to the family and was donated to Tønsberg Municipality in 1929. It subsequently served as the town hall for several decades.
Today, Gunnarsbø Park is a public green space where visitors can discover the historic estate and monuments associated with Tønsberg's maritime heritage.
Discover more of Tønsberg's shipping history
To learn more about the shipping companies and sailors who shaped Tønsberg, visit the Tønsberg Maritime History Centre at Tollboden. Its exhibitions include ship models, photographs and historical objects illustrating the town's shipping and whaling history. You can also see the bust of Halfdan Wilhelmsen, located near Grinvollparken on Halfdan Wilhelmsens allé. Also created by Carl Edvard Paulsen, it was unveiled in 1961.
Plan your visit
The bust of Wilhelm Wilhelmsen stands outdoors at Gunnarsbø in Tønsberg, near Svend Foyns gate 3. The sculpture can be viewed from the public park throughout the year. Admission is free, and no ticket or advance booking is required.
A visit takes only a few minutes and can easily be combined with a walk through Gunnarsbø Park and central Tønsberg.
The exact map location, nearby parking and step-free access should be checked in advance if you have specific accessibility requirements.