La Prairie, Suzuki Jihei, born in 1927 – Wrought Iron – 1972

La Prairie (1972) is a 103 cm long wrought iron sculpture by Japanese sculptor Suzuki Jihei. The work, depicting three deer, accurately captures the animals' grace and alertness.
The clean lines and finesse of the metalwork demonstrate the artist's technical mastery.
Suzuki Jihei, born in 1927 in Chiba, Japan, studied blacksmithing at the Tokyo Art School (now Tokyo University of the Arts). After graduation, he taught there for many years until his retirement in 1993. He still holds the title of Honorary Professor at the Tokyo University of the Arts.
Suzuki has won several prestigious awards, including two Nitten Special Selections, the Nikto Hokuto Award, the Nitten Members' Award, and the Japan Contemporary Crafts Grand Prize.
His works have been exhibited at venues such as the Sakura City Museum of Art and the official residence of the Japanese Prime Minister. He continues to actively contribute to the art scene as a core member of the Chiba Prefectural Art Association and permanent director of the Japan Arts and Crafts Association.
La Prairie reflects Suzuki Jihei's commitment to exploring the possibilities of metal, combining tradition and innovation to create works that capture the beauty and serenity of nature.