This museum is dedicated to the artist Hirakushi Denchu. A native of Ibara, he is renowned for his wooden sculptures. The museum, opened in his honor, features a permanent exhibition of various works by this artist. Since 2023, the Tokyo Museum, which also holds sculptures by Hirakushi Denchu, has been undergoing renovation. This opportunity enabled Ibara to recover one of the sculptor's most famous sculptures, Shisaku Kagami Jishi, for the first time in 20 years. This 206.0×176.0×122.0 cm painted sculpture refers to a famous lion dance from Kabuki theater. Its name, "Kagami Jishi", means "Lion of the Mirror". However, this masterpiece is not the only one to focus on.
Hirakushi Denchu's other sculptures are just as impressive! The conditions of the exhibition allow us to appreciate the complexity of his wooden works. In fact, most of his works are carved from a single piece of wood. Spread over 3 floors, the museum features works by various artists. Currently on display are pottery works by Yu Fujiwara, his father Kei Fujiwara, blades by the blacksmith Yukihira Miyairi; and bamboo works by Sôhô Katsushiro. Lovers of art and culture may be fascinated by Hirakushi Denchu's various works and the opportunity to see such a varied collection.
As it's not possible to take photos inside the museum, here's an official image of the statue and the Denchu garden, just in front of the museum.
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