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Germany
Ernst Barlach House
The Ernst Barlach House is a unique museum that's tucked away in the beautiful Jenisch park in Hamburg. It was designed by the architect Werner Kallmorgen and was opened on October 24, 1962. The museum was a tribute to Ernst Barlach, one of the leading German expressionist sculptors, printmakers, and writers of the 20th century.
Ernst Barlach is most recognized for his sculptures that portray human figures with expressive features, often displaying a profound sense of pain and struggle. These pieces are the highlight of the museum collection. The Ernst Barlach House is not just a museum but also a place of remembrance dedicated to preserving and sharing Barlach's legacy and his fight against war and inhumanity.
The museum's exterior is simplistic but elegant, with its white plaster facade and a flat roof, it's a perfect example of the post-war modernist architecture style. The large windows allow the sunlight to bathe the exhibition rooms, creating a peaceful atmosphere that aligns with the contemplative nature of Barlach's works.
Inside, the museum has a clear, linear layout with ample space for the sculptures, drawings, and graphic works, as well as Barlach’s globally unique collection of woodcuts. The interior design has been kept minimalistic to ensure that the focus remains on the artworks. The museum also houses a library that contains a comprehensive collection of Barlach’s writings and literature about his life and work.
Some interesting facts about the Ernst Barlach House are that it was initially funded by Hermann F. Reemtsma, a German entrepreneur and art collector, in memory of his mother and that it was the first museum worldwide to be dedicated to Ernst Barlach. Moreover, the museum is home to more than 400 pieces of Barlach's works, making it the most extensive collection of his art.
In essence, the Ernst Barlach House is a place where art, architecture, and nature come together to form a harmonious entity. It is a peaceful oasis that invites visitors to engage with Barlach's moving works while enjoying the tranquillity of its surroundings.