Renowned Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota has shared her unique vision with Château Mouton Rothschild’s 2021 label, creating a captivating artwork titled “Universe of Mouton.” In this piece, Shiota masterfully captures the delicate relationship between humanity and nature, emphasizing the winery’s commitment to embracing the natural conditions that influence grape growth.

Shiota’s drawing portrays the slender silhouette of a human figure against a backdrop of splendid nature, highlighting the symbiotic connection between mankind and the environment. The figure, though seemingly small, holds a pivotal role in maintaining this delicate balance. Shiota poetically describes this equilibrium, stating, “Mouton is holding on to the balance of human and nature.

The four threads within the artwork symbolize the four seasons, anchoring time within the space of the composition. Each season brings its unique emotions—loneliness and sadness in winter, the planting of hope in spring, the richness of summer, and the fulfillment of fall. Shiota expresses, “It is like preserving the memory of the year in the wine,” emphasizing the profound connection between the artwork, the wine, and the memories encapsulated within.

Julien de Beaumarchais de Rothschild, co-owner of Château Mouton Rothschild, resonates with Shiota’s vision, describing the label as embodying “metaphorical realism.” He envisions the artwork as a vinegrower firmly grasping a fabulous cluster of grapes, emphasizing the fragility and fertility inherent in the relationship between humankind and nature.

Chiharu Shiota, born in Osaka in 1972 and currently based in Berlin, is renowned for transforming personal experiences and emotions into universal human concerns. Her artistic repertoire includes installations, sculptures, drawings, performance videos, photographs, and canvases. Notably, she received the Minister of Education’s Art Encouragement Prize for New Artists in Japan in 2008.

Since 1945 Château Mouton Rothschild has commissioned original artworks for each vintage’s label, creating the most unique collection in the world of contemporary art and wine (read more about it here). Artists like Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, Jeff Koons, and even Prince Charles (today King Charles III) and many more have contributed. To celebrate the unveiling of the label for Château Mouton Rothschild 2021, an exclusive lot is being auctioned by Baron Philippe de Rothschild SA in collaboration with Christie’s. The lot, featuring various formats of the 2021 vintage, will benefit the Association Antoine Alléno, a charity founded by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno. The funds raised will go to families affected by violence, providing comprehensive support programs.

As Château Mouton Rothschild continues its legacy of blending fine wine with contemporary art, Chiharu Shiota’s “Universe of Mouton” stands as a great example to the enduring harmony between nature, humanity, and the art of winemaking.

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