【Important notes】 ・International buyers are responsible for any import duties, taxes, and charges not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please note that VAT paid to Catawiki is separate from and does not cover import duties or customs charges in your country. You may still be required to pay additional fees upon delivery, as determined by your local customs authorities. ・Shipping Details: Most items are shipped via Japan Post EMS (airmail). If you are in a hurry, we can arrange shipping via DHL or FedEx upon request for an additional fee. ・Damage and Issues: If you receive a damaged item, please contact us immediately. The damage must be reported to your local post office within 7 days of delivery, and promptly to us and Catawiki support. 【Product details】 A contemporary wooden sculpture titled “Shingan” (Inner Eye) by the distinctive modern woodcarver Chitoshi Nakama, created in the late 20th century. The work depicts an owl, a creature symbolising wisdom and insight, and the title refers to an “inner eye” that perceives beyond outward vision. This concept is reflected in the owl’s serene expression and meditative pose. The textured carving shows Nakama’s characteristic blend of careful craftsmanship and humorous, imaginative form. Inside the owl’s gently cupped hands rests a small gold-coloured gourd, adding symbolic depth and a playful accent. Chitoshi Nakama was born in Okinawa in 1960 and began teaching himself woodcarving around 1985. A trip to Hokkaido inspired his fascination with local woods such as Ezo-enju, leading him to establish a workshop in the Abashiri region. He received the Excellence Award at the 1st Hokkaido Grand Craft Fair in 1988, and the Grand Prix (Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award) at the “Woodcarving Folk Art Ōya” competition in Hyōgo Prefecture in both 2001 and 2018, and is known as a regular exhibitor. The base bears the carved signature. The wooden box has the hand-written title, signature, and seal. Included are three original postcards of the artist’s works (one of them used), a protective cloth, and a letter from the artist addressed to the original purchaser (the name has been covered for privacy). Very good used condition with minimal wear. Please refer to the photos for details. Dimensions: approx. H 23.5 cm W 24 cm D 21 cm ・Please make sure to review all the provided information and images before placing your bid. ・We make every effort to accurately represent the product's colors and textures in our photos. However, due to differences in monitors and device displays, as well as photographic conditions, slight color variations between the photos and the actual product may occur. We ask for your understanding in advance. Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!