The sculpture, known affectionately among Danish people as "Lille Havfrue" is based on the fairy tale "The little Mermaid" by Hans Christian Andersen. The statue was designed by sculptor Edvard Eriksen. Over the years it has been the focus of many a photograph but sadly also a target for vandals: unknown perpetrators have decapitated her, severed an arm and also spray painted her. Thankfully until now all damage to the little Mermaid could be repaired, restoring her to her original beauty.