Güstrower Barlach works on a big trip to China for the Beethoven exhibition

Güstrower Barlach works on a big trip to China for the Beethoven exhibition

Works by the renowned artist Ernst Barlach travel from Güstrow to China to become part of an important art show. The exhibits are on loan at the Muxin Museum in Wuzhen, an institution dedicated to the artist Mu Xin. The exhibition is dedicated to the famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven and will be on view from May 2nd to August 3rd, 2025. After the exhibition ends, the works of art will be brought back to Güstrow NDR reported.

The organization of the loans began with a call from the Chinese cultural attaché based in Austria. Magdalena Schulz-Ohm, the head of the Barlach Foundation, established contact with the Muxin Museum, where the exhibits were needed. A total of 13 works were sent from Güstrow, including a bronze head and several terracotta figures. Preparations for transport include a detailed inspection of the condition of the artwork to avoid possible damage.

Preparation and transport

The restorer Andrea Grund is currently working on repairing minor material defects on the terracotta figures to ensure that the pieces are in perfect condition. Transport takes place in special boxes that are protected against environmental influences and climate changes. These boxes also have to go through customs control and are sealed.

The collaboration between the German museums and the Muxin Museum also includes woodcut graphics that Barlach created in 1927 and which focus on Friedrich Schiller's “Ode to Joy”. The exhibition specifically requires three terracotta figures and a bronze head of Beethoven, which are of great importance in depicting the connection between Barlach and Beethoven.

Historical connection between Barlach and Beethoven

It is noteworthy that Ernst Barlach was invited to submit designs for a Beethoven monument in 1926. Although the competition was later discontinued, Barlach's original proposal included a column with figures listening to the music of Beethoven, along with a portrait of the composer. This historical connection is further highlighted by the exhibition at the Muxin Museum, such as Northern Courier supplemented.

The Barlach Foundation is pleased about the opportunity to present the art treasures internationally. The transport and the exhibition are financed by the employees of the Muxin Museum, while the museum director from the Barlach Foundation accompanies the process to ensure smooth loading and unloading as well as the construction of the exhibition.