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The bronze sculpture of Mikhail Kalashnikov, created by sculptor Vladimir Kourochkin (a native of the city of Penza), graces the museum's spacious entrance area.
In fact, the initial plan was to install only a bust of the designer, but the sponsors felt that Kalashnikov deserved a life size portrayal and generously financed the sculptor, who was approved by Kalashnikov himself.
Vladimir Kurochkin comments: "Despite having the rank of Lt.-General (retired), Mikhail is a civilian at heart, so I decided to portray him wearing plain trousers, loose shirt and a jacket".
Kalashnikov appreciated the sculptor's approach - at the museum opening banquet he warmly embraced Vladimir and told him: "You know, I really like the hermit-like appearance that you've given me".
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Pic.1c-14 Entrance door
The building has two levels: the upper floor is occupied by the exhibition, and on the ground floor there are the conference hall, the Kalashnikov Fund Headquarters, Kalashnikov's own apartments, a cafe, technical library, public information center, a cinema hall, and gift shop. There is a firing range under construction, which will be open to the general public, and a gun shop is also planned.
Let's enter the museum.
Pic.1c-15 To the left: entrance door, to the right: personnel only door.
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