Item Description: This is an exceptional black ceramic bowl "Kokutou Shinjinmon" (Deep Black Ceramic with Shinjin Pattern) by Sakata Jinnai 坂田甚内 Sakata Jinnai (1943-), a distinguished Mashiko pottery artist. The piece showcases Sakata's signature black pottery technique combined with his unique "Shinjinmon" decorative motif, featuring lustrous gold accents that create a striking contrast against the deep black surface. Sakata Jinnai studied under Kamoda Shoji, one of the most influential contemporary ceramic artists in Mashiko, and established his own kiln in Kamioowa, Mashiko in 1966. His work is characterized by the masterful use of black glaze (kokutou) and innovative incorporation of various materials including glass, paper, and metal foil. This bowl exemplifies his artistic philosophy of "listening to the earth" and his exploration of the coexistence between the everyday and the extraordinary. The bowl features the artist's signature stamp and displays the deep, velvety black surface that Sakata is renowned for, enhanced with gold decoration. The form is both functional and sculptural, embodying the Mashiko pottery tradition while expressing Sakata's contemporary artistic vision. This piece represents a rare opportunity to acquire work by an artist whose pieces have been exhibited at prestigious venues including Takashimaya department stores and whose works are held in notable collections. The bowl comes from a private collection and shows the characteristic qualities that have made Sakata's work highly sought after by collectors both in Japan and internationally. Size Height: 14 cm Width: 30 cm Condition The bowl shows signs of age-appropriate wear including minor scuffs and surface marks consistent with its vintage. Overall the piece remains in good condition with the black glaze and gold decoration well preserved. Artist Profile Sakata Jinnai (born 1943, Tokyo) is a prominent contemporary ceramic artist based in Mashiko, Tochigi Prefecture. He studied under the renowned potter Kamoda Shoji from 1964 and established his own kiln in Mashiko in 1966. Sakata is celebrated for his distinctive black pottery (kokutou) works and his innovative exploration of materials beyond traditional ceramics, including glass, handmade paper, and LED lighting. His artistic career spans over five decades, with regular solo exhibitions at prestigious venues including Takashimaya (Nihonbashi, Osaka, Kashiwa, Yokohama). Sakata's work is deeply rooted in Japanese aesthetics while embracing contemporary artistic expression, often drawing inspiration from Jomon period pottery and exploring themes of the cosmos and primordial memories. In 2013, his monumental work "Homage to the Sun" was dedicated to Ise Grand Shrine, and in 2014, he dedicated a glass object to Atsuta Shrine, demonstrating the spiritual dimension of his artistic practice. His works are highly regarded for their technical excellence, aesthetic sophistication, and the unique fusion of traditional Mashiko pottery techniques with modern artistic sensibilities. 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.