Item Description This is a distinctive square flower vase by 坂田甚内 Sakata Jinnai (b. 1943), one of Japan's most innovative contemporary ceramic artists from Mashiko. The piece features his signature black pottery with the "Shinjin-mon" (深甚紋) - Sakata's iconic carved wave pattern that evokes cosmic energies and universal architectures. The vase showcases a bold, angular form characteristic of Sakata's modernist approach. The surface displays his masterful black clay technique with deeply incised wave-like patterns that create dramatic shadows and textural depth. This striking geometric vessel represents Sakata's unique aesthetic vision, where traditional Mashiko pottery techniques meet contemporary sculptural expression. Sakata studied under the renowned potter Kamoda Shoji before establishing his own kiln in Mashiko in 1966. His works are held in prestigious collections including The British Museum, The Rockefeller Foundation, and Waseda University. His distinctive style combines traditional Japanese pottery with modern artistic sensibilities, creating pieces that function as both utilitarian objects and sculptural art. This square vase exemplifies Sakata's artistic philosophy of capturing the energy of nature and the cosmos in clay form, making it a perfect choice for contemporary ikebana arrangements or as a standalone art piece. Size Height: 10 cm Width: 10.5 cm Depth: 9 cm Weight 1121 g / 1.12 kg Condition The vase is in excellent condition with no significant damage, cracks, or restoration. Minor signs of age-appropriate wear consistent with authentic vintage pottery. Artist Profile Sakata Jinnai was born in Tokyo in 1943 and began his ceramic career studying under master potter Kamoda Shoji in 1964. In 1966, he established his own climbing kiln in Mashiko, Tochigi Prefecture, marking the beginning of his independent artistic journey. Since 1987, Sakata has exhibited extensively both internationally and throughout Japan, including prestigious venues like Takashimaya department stores and galleries in New York. A versatile and innovative artist, Sakata works across multiple media including ceramics, glass, metal alloys, painting, and sculptural objects. His ceramic works are characterized by black pottery (Kokutou) with his signature "Shinjin-mon" carved patterns, often enhanced with gold or lacquer accents. His pieces draw inspiration from cosmic forces and the architecture of the universe, resulting in works that are both primal and sophisticated. His works are held in major collections including The British Museum, The Rockefeller Foundation, and Waseda University, establishing him as one of Japan's leading contemporary ceramic artists. NOITICE : The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.