Musha-Ningyō: Avatars of the Samurai Spirit
(April 27-October 6, 2024) Member preview day April 26
The Morikami Museum celebrates the wisdom and strength of all children in an extraordinary display of traditional dolls (ningyō) depicting Japan’s rich samurai culture, inspired by Kodomo no Hi, or Children’s Day. This popular festival was originally known as, Tango no Sekku (First Day of the Horse), and held on the 5th day of the 5th month. Noted for the elaborate display of dolls depicting renowned warriors drawn from Japan’s martial past, in 1948 the Japanese government rededicated the May holiday to all children – boys and girls – as Kodomo no Hi.
Musha-ningyō, or warrior dolls, represent a range of legendary and historic figures. The ascendency of the samurai warrior class in the 11th century profoundly shaped the philosophical, political, and visual culture of Japan for the next seven centuries. Samurai-based values and attitudes emphasized martial prowess and strength. The development of the Boy’s Day Ceremony, with its dramatic display of exquisitely dressed ningyō, not only reflects the proud family lineages and exploits, but the ritual also imbued the figures with a special symbolism that enabled participants to renew their connection with the spirit of the samurai.
Meet the movers and shakers of Japanese lore and legend, including elegant Empress Jingū, shaman and interpreter of dreams; Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Japan’s Great Unifier; Kato Kiyomasa, “The Devil General;” archer Minamoto Yorimasu, the monster-slayer; and Kintarō and Momotarō, beloved boy heroes of superhuman strength. Set against a backdrop of boldly decorated Boy’s Day banners and crested battlefield curtains, you can explore the world of these diminutive icons of nobility and trace their influence on contemporary avatars of the samurai spirit.
The Morikami is thrilled to present this rare gathering – curated by Alan Pate – of more than 50 meticulously outfitted musha-ningyō created by leading doll artists of the 19th and 20th centuries on-loan from private collections.
Take Akari: Bamboo Lights
Experience the world of illuminated bamboo at the Morikami
Date: Member Preview Day – Thursday, June 13. Open to the Public – Friday, June 14. Open through September 22, 2024.
Location: Yamato-Kan
Featured Artist: Akihiro Mashimo, Bamboo Craftsman (accompanied by two assistant bamboo craftsman)
Experience the world of illuminated bamboo by bamboo craftsman and artisan Akihiro Mashimo. In Japan, Take Akari or Bamboo Light festivals and events are popular in various regions of modern Japan. This movement began over three decades ago and has become a new cultural phenomenon. The bamboo light installations were started with the intention of enlightening people about the critical need for maintaining bamboo forests and educating the community about this important natural resource used in their daily lives. Take Akari: Bamboo Lights is a unique immersive experience for visitors to taste a small part of Japan’s festivities at the Morikami.
Organized by the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. Funded in part by The Jacarlene Foundation, JM Family Enterprises, Inc., and Nobu Hotel Miami Beach.