「寿人遊星」山下 恒雄 (神田のアート七福めぐり・寿老人)

寿人遊星 (寿老人)

"寿人遊星" is a distinctive public art sculpture by artist 恒雄山下, situated in a small park adjacent to the俎橋 (Manaita Bridge) in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward. This artwork represents 寿老人 (Jurojin), one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese folklore, who embodies longevity and wisdom. Jurojin is traditionally depicted as an elderly man with a long white beard, carrying a staff and a scroll, often accompanied by a deer, symbolizing longevity. (onmarkproductions.com)

The sculpture was created in 1986 to commemorate the approach of Halley's Comet, reflecting the artist's playful approach to public art. The name "寿人遊星" translates to "Longevity Person Playing with Stars," highlighting the celestial connection. The piece is part of the 神田アート七福めぐり (Kanda Art Seven Lucky Gods) project, which features artworks representing the Seven Lucky Gods in the Kanda area. (citywalk2020.hatenablog.com)

Visitors can find this sculpture in the俎橋児童遊園 (Manaita Bridge Children's Park), a small public park near the bridge. The area is known for its nostalgic and retro atmosphere, offering a unique glimpse into Tokyo's past. The sculpture serves as a reminder of the city's rich cultural heritage and the enduring presence of traditional symbols in modern urban spaces.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Jurojin, the deity depicted in the sculpture, is one of the Seven Lucky Gods (Shichifukujin) in Japanese folklore. Originating from Taoist traditions, Jurojin is associated with longevity and wisdom. He is often depicted as an elderly man with a long white beard, carrying a staff and a scroll, accompanied by a deer, symbolizing longevity. (onmarkproductions.com)

The Seven Lucky Gods are a group of deities who are believed to bring good fortune and happiness. They are commonly depicted together on a treasure ship, symbolizing the arrival of good luck. Each god has distinct attributes and is associated with different aspects of prosperity and well-being. (tokyoweekender.com)

Artistic Details

The sculpture "寿人遊星" is characterized by its playful and imaginative design. It features Jurojin with an exaggeratedly long head, a distinctive feature that sets it apart from traditional representations. The sculpture is crafted with attention to detail, capturing the essence of the deity while adding a contemporary twist. The choice of materials and the execution reflect the artist's unique style and approach to public art.

Visitor Information

The sculpture is located in the俎橋児童遊園 (Manaita Bridge Children's Park), a small public park near the俎橋 (Manaita Bridge) in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward. The area is accessible via public transportation, with several bus and subway lines serving the vicinity. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park and explore the surrounding neighborhood, which offers a blend of historical and modern attractions.

The "寿人遊星" sculpture is a testament to Tokyo's rich cultural heritage and its ability to blend traditional symbols with contemporary art forms. It serves as a reminder of the enduring presence of traditional symbols in modern urban spaces and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city's artistic landscape.