– Sakata Jinnai, celebrated contemporary ceramic sculptor working in yakishime tradition – Dramatic wave-pattern texture across black fired surface, suggesting natural rhythms and movement – Substantial horizontal sculpture at 26 cm width, commanding presence for desk, shelf, or pedestal display Summary: This sculptural ceramic object by Sakata Jinnai demonstrates the artist's continuing exploration of texture, form, and the expressive potential of unglazed black ceramics. Moving beyond functional vessel forms, this piece embraces pure sculptural intention, with its horizontal orientation and flowing wave patterns creating visual rhythms that suggest water, landscape, or the undulating surfaces of ancient Jōmon pottery. The black yakishime surface amplifies every textural detail, turning light and shadow into essential compositional elements. For collectors seeking Japanese studio ceramics that push beyond traditional tea ceremony aesthetics into contemporary sculptural territory, this work offers compelling evidence of yakishime's ongoing relevance. Sakata Jinnai has built his reputation on reinterpreting Japan's most ancient ceramic traditions through contemporary sculptural forms. The yakishime technique – high-temperature firing without glaze – represents one of Japan's oldest approaches to pottery, allowing clay, fire, and ash to create surface effects without any vitreous coating. This method demands exceptional technical skill, as the potter must control body composition, firing temperature, kiln atmosphere, and countless other variables to achieve desired results. When successful, yakishime produces surfaces of extraordinary subtlety and depth, with colours ranging from warm earth tones to the deep blacks that characterise Sakata's recent work. The wave pattern that animates this sculpture's surface creates immediate visual interest. These undulating forms might reference ocean swells, windswept sand, or the rhythmic cord impressions of Jōmon pottery – the interpretation remains open, allowing each viewer to bring their own associations. What remains consistent is the hypnotic quality of the repeated pattern, the way it leads the eye across the form in continuous movement. The black surface amplifies this effect dramatically; where raised areas catch light, they read as softer charcoal grey, whilst recessed valleys remain inky and mysterious. This interplay of light and shadow transforms the piece throughout the day as natural illumination shifts. At 26 cm in width, this sculptural object possesses substantial physical presence whilst remaining manageable for residential display. It sits beautifully on a desk, bookshelf, console table, or dedicated pedestal, commanding attention without overwhelming its surroundings. In contemporary interiors – whether minimalist, industrial, or carefully curated wabi-sabi spaces – such pieces provide textural richness and cultural depth. The black colour feels modern and sophisticated, allowing easy integration with European design vocabularies, yet the hand-worked surface and organic form clearly signal Japanese ceramic tradition. Collectors of contemporary Japanese ceramics increasingly seek works that demonstrate innovation within traditional techniques. Sakata Jinnai's sculptural objects occupy an important position in this field, showing how yakishime methods can generate forms that feel entirely contemporary whilst remaining rooted in centuries of ceramic knowledge. Comparable examples of modern Japanese ceramic sculpture are held in museum collections, reflecting institutional recognition of this work's artistic significance. Overall in excellent vintage condition with only minor signs of age and handling. All surface textures, colour variations, and forms are intentional artistic elements integral to the work's aesthetic. No chips, cracks, or structural damage. Stable and ready for display. If this sculptural work resonates with your appreciation for contemporary Japanese ceramics that honour tradition whilst embracing modern artistic vision, we invite you to make it part of your collection. Shipping & Handling We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer's responsibility. Seller Guarantee We specialise in authentic Japanese ceramics and guarantee this piece's authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours. 1152