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

A Masterful Contemporary Ceramic Work by Jinnai Sakata (坂田甚内) - "Uchikin Hachi"

This is a striking contemporary ceramic work by the acclaimed Japanese artist Jinnai Sakata (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 / 内金鉢), 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. This profound duality speaks to Sakata’s exploration of coexistence and spiritual resonance.

With its bold architectural stability and organic dynamism, this powerful sculptural presence harmonizes perfectly with sophisticated European interiors, mid-century modern spaces, or minimalist contemporary art collections.

The underside bears the artist’s incised signature ("Jin. 6"), confirming its authenticity.

Size:

Width: approx. 28.6 × 28.4 cm

Height: approx. 7.1 cm

Artist Profile: Jinnai Sakata (1943–)
Jinnai Sakata studied under the legendary ceramic master 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.

Starting in the 1990s, Sakata began creating works combining black-fired pottery (kokutō) with Japanese washi paper, metal foils, and glass. He is highly praised both in Japan and internationally for large sculptural vessels and symbolic forms that explore themes of coexistence and memory. His prestigious works have been exhibited and installed in sacred, historic locations such as Ise Grand Shrine (伊勢神宮), Izumo Taisha (出雲大社), and Atsuta Shrine (熱田神宮), and have been featured widely in Japanese art publications and television programs.

Condition:
Good/Excellent condition with no visible cracks or damage. Please refer carefully to the high-resolution photographs to appreciate the exquisite surface textures and confirm its beautiful state.

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