Welcome to the Moominhouse!

The animation at the start of the exhibition tells the story of the first Moomin book, The Moomins and the Great Flood (1945). The book recounts the family’s first exciting adventure, which culminates in them finding their way to Moominvalley. There they discover the Moominhouse built by Moominpappa, which the flood happens to have carried to the valley. The round, blue house with its turreted roof looks exactly like an old-fashioned porcelain stove, and the Moomins instantly feel at home.

The Moominhouse tableau (1979) built by Tove Jansson (1914-2001), Tuulikki Pietilä (1917–2009) and Pentti Eistola (1931–2022) differs from the way the house is described in the Moomin books both in its shape and details. For this exhibition, we have recreated a life-sized version of the tableau’s parlour, complete with identical wallpaper, curtains and furniture. Inside, visitors will find a display of Tove Jansson’s original illustrations of goings-on in the Moominhouse and its many guests and inhabitants.

The exhibition concludes with a glimpse into the secrets of the Moominhouse tableau, which forms part of the Moomin Museum’s permanent exhibit. The huge amount of work involved in the three-year process of building the tableau is illustrated by a documentary film, sketches, material samples, craft supplies and a large collection of small accessories.

The Moominhouse symbolises togetherness, equality, and shelter. Always full of life, it is a place where everyone is free to be exactly who they are. Symbolically, the tableau is a reminder of the importance of play in the lives of children and adults alike.