Stoneware - 坂田甚内 Jinnai Sakata (1943–) - Japan - 1900-2000

This is a striking contemporary ceramic work by Jinnai Sakata (坂田甚内, b. 1943), presented as a square-form vessel with a richly textured exterior and a luminous gold interior. The piece, titled Uchikin Hachi (Inner Gold Bowl), demonstrates Sakata’s masterful use of contrast between raw, tactile surfaces and refined, radiant finishes. The outer walls are executed in kokutō (black-fired pottery), bearing swirling, carved patterns reminiscent of natural woodgrain or flowing water, evoking an elemental connection to earth and nature. The irregular surface, with its rough-hewn impressions, accentuates the handcrafted quality and adds depth to the work. Inside, the basin is lined with gleaming gold leaf, which captures and reflects light brilliantly, creating a powerful juxtaposition between exterior austerity and interior opulence. The form is square yet softened at the edges, giving it both architectural stability and organic dynamism. Measuring approximately 28.6 × 28.4 cm in width and 7.1 cm in height, this vessel is suitable as a centerpiece in display, while its symbolic duality—earthy black exterior and radiant gold within—speaks to Sakata’s exploration of coexistence and spiritual resonance. The underside bears the artist’s signature (Jin), confirming authenticity.


Size : Width: approx. 28.6 × 28.4 cm Height: approx. 7.1 cm


Artist/Armourer Profile: Jinnai Sakata (1943–) Jinnai Sakata studied under Akira Kamoda in 1964 and established his own kiln in Mashiko in 1966. Since then, he has held solo exhibitions regularly at major galleries including Akasaka Green Gallery, Nihonbashi Takashimaya, and overseas venues like the New York Takashimaya Art Gallery. His artistic journey spans ceramic, glass, and paper media, evolving into complex installations and collaborative works. Starting in the 1990s, Sakata began creating works combining black-fired pottery (kokutō) with Japanese washi paper and later with metal foils and glass. He is known for large sculptural vessels and symbolic forms that explore themes of coexistence, memory, and spiritual reverence. His works have been exhibited and installed in prestigious locations such as Ise Grand Shrine, Izumo Taisha, and Atsuta Shrine, and have been featured in numerous Japanese publications and television programs.


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