Iksan Jewelry Museum to Hold Touring Exhibition of "Natural Gemstone Animal Sculptures"

From October 2 to November 3 at Iksan Mireuksaji Service Area
Showcasing 88 animal sculptures made from jasper, aventurine, and more

The Iksan Jewelry Museum in North Jeolla Province announced on September 30 that it will hold a touring exhibition of "Natural Gemstone Animal Sculptures" at the Iksan Mireuksaji Service Area (both directions) from October 2 to November 3, coinciding with the start of the Chuseok holiday.

Natural Gemstone Animal Sculpture Poster. Provided by Iksan City

This exhibition will be held in the Suncheon-bound (southbound) direction from October 2 to 19, which includes the Chuseok holiday period, and in the Cheonan-bound (northbound) direction from October 20 to November 3.

The exhibition will showcase 88 animal sculptures crafted from a variety of natural gemstones, including a snake sculpture made of aquamarine to mark the Year of the Blue Snake (Eulsanyeon), as well as pieces made from malachite, jasper, aventurine, and more.

This exhibition was organized to commemorate both the renaming of the service area and the 30th anniversary of the merger between Iri City and Iksan County. It aims to promote Iksan and the Jewelry Museum to travelers nationwide during the holiday and autumn travel season.

The Iksan Mireuksaji Service Area, the exhibition venue, originally opened in 1980 and operated as Yesan Service Area for 45 years. This year, its name was changed to Iksan Mireuksaji Service Area to strengthen the historical identity of Iksan.

The sculptures are designed in the form of familiar animals, making them enjoyable for visitors of all ages. The exhibition hall also features information panels introducing legends and proverbs related to the twelve zodiac animals and snakes. For more details, please contact the Jewelry Museum.

Mayor Jung Heon-yul stated, "We have prepared this special exhibition so that those traveling long distances during the busy Chuseok holiday can find comfort for their weary bodies and minds," adding, "I hope visitors can experience Iksan, the city of gemstones, along with local specialties at the service area."