Koun Takamura (1852-1934) and Komei Ishikawa (1852-1913), two master sculptors born in the same year, were both appointed as Artists to the Imperial Household when the system started in 1890.
Koun was a self-trained Buddhist sculptor and is only known for works in wood, while Komei often worked with ivory. Their works are sometimes shown in exhibitions, but usually only a handful of their representative pieces go on display. This exhibition showcases around 60 pieces, including ivory and wooden sculptures, framed carvings and netsuke by Komei, and wooden sculptures and frames by Koun; till Nov. 20.
Kiyomizu Sannenzaka Museum; (075) 532-4270; 3-337-1 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi; take city bus from JR Kyoto Station and get off at Kiyomizu Michi bus stop, 7-min. walk from the bus stop. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. ¥500. Closed Mon., Tues.; open holidays. www.sannenzaka-museum.co.jp.
