Akira Ikeda's "Remains of the Temple" has been acquired by the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

Two works by lacquer artist Akimasa Ikeda have been acquired by the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) in Texas, USA.

This article introduces one of the works in our collection, the large-scale sculpture "Remains of the Temple."

For Ikeda, who has previously focused on creating tea ceremony utensils and lidded containers, this work represents a significant challenge as he tackles a large-scale object freed from functional constraints. It attempts to connect the techniques and aesthetic sensibilities of Japanese lacquerware, cultivated in Japan, with the Western concept and context of "fine art," from a contemporary perspective.

The production period spanned one year and eight months, marking a significant milestone for both the artist and the studio. We are deeply honored that this work has been acquired by an overseas museum and will become part of a collection that will be passed down to future generations.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported our activities so far. Going forward, I will continue to work on creating art that will help spread the techniques and aesthetic sensibilities cultivated in Japan to a wider audience around the world.

[Work Information]

Title: Remains of the Temple

Size: 93.6 x 42.3 x 36.8 cm

Materials: Lacquer, hemp cloth, mother-of-pearl, abalone shell, wood

Lacquer, Linen, Green turban shell, Abalone shell, Wood