This is a cast metal art piece by Shinichi Kitamura, a metal artist designated as a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property). His work is highly acclaimed for its solid metalwork techniques, inherited from his father and master, metal artist Ichiro Kitamura, and for its profound yet precise expressions achieved through the chukin (metal casting) technique. The greatest characteristic of the chukin technique, which involves pouring molten metal into a mold to form a shape, lies in its ability to express soft, rich curved surfaces and subtle textural nuances despite being made of metal. Shinichi Kitamura has mastered traditional chukin techniques, pursuing a refined sculptural beauty that harmonizes with contemporary living spaces, and his works are widely praised for their high artistic quality and reliable metalworking skill.
This piece is a small chukin bowl (small plate) featuring a design reminiscent of ancient Chinese coins. The Oriental aesthetic, created by the interplay of the square central form and the rounded outer shape, exquisitely harmonizes with the weighty texture of the metal. The greatest excellence in the design of this piece lies in its gently curved (spherical) bottom surface, which comes into contact with the tabletop. When placed on a table, it sways gently and pleasingly, yet thanks to the precisely calculated center of gravity unique to chukin, it incorporates a magnificent playfulness that ensures it remains stable and centered. The moist surface texture, which conveys none of the coldness of metal, along with the pleasant weight unique to metal when held in the hand, represents the culmination of uncompromising chukin techniques and refined sculptural sensibility.
We propose this vessel, combining historical art value with sophisticated playfulness, as an appetizer dish (for serving nuts, dried fruits, small sweets, etc.) to accompany premium spirits such as whisky or aged sake, gracefully adapting it to a refined modern lifestyle. The gentle swaying movement of the vessel placed beside a glass adds elegance and fosters conversation in the drinking space, elevating a relaxed evening drink to a more luxurious experience. Fusing the advanced techniques of a Living National Treasure with a sophisticated taste that enriches daily life, this piece is a rare craft art piece that brings rich dignity to the everyday table.
- Artist: Shinichi Kitamura (born 1952–present)
- Artist's Representative Activity: [2019] Certified as a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property ("Lost-Wax Casting" / Living National Treasure)
- Period of Production: 1980s–2000s
- Condition: Very good (no chips, no cracks)
- Accessories: Dedicated box and explanatory leaflet (Shiori) included
- Material: Cupronickel (estimated)
- Dimensions: Width approx. 14 cm, Depth approx. 9.4 cm, Weight approx. 158 g
- Special Notes: As this is a silver product, discoloration due to silver oxidation can be observed.
- Caution: Even if the products we offer are new and unused, they are from a very old production period and are all listed as used items. The product may have damage due to age, so please consider purchasing after understanding and confirming its condition.
