Item Description: This is a premium lidded four-tier ceramic box (futamono) by the esteemed Japanese artist Jinnai Sakata (坂田甚内), known for his signature kokutō (black-fired pottery). The exterior features rich, smoky black and grey ash textures and undulating hand-carved wave-like surface patterns, evoking geological forms or weathered stone. The dynamic form culminates in a sculptural peak that flows naturally with the layered structure of the piece. Upon opening, the interior reveals a dramatic contrast — a luminous gold-leaf application lines each of the three inner containers. Some compartments also display subtle reddish accents from oxidation during the firing process. These golden interiors elevate the piece from a functional storage item to a ceremonial or symbolic object, celebrating both light and shadow, surface and depth. Fully signed on the base with the artist’s engraved mark and accompanied by original documentation and promotional material from a solo exhibition, this piece is a museum-quality example of Sakata’s most refined work. A rare opportunity to acquire a masterpiece from one of Japan's most conceptually innovative contemporary ceramicists. Size: Height: approx. 28 cm Width: approx. 20 cm Depth: approx. 15 cm Artist/Armourer Profile: Jinnai Sakata (坂田甚内, 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. 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.