Images(11)

Bronze Eight Faces Box

MakerMade by Koji Hatakeyama (Takaoka, Japan, born 1956)

Date2007

Object NameBox

Mediumbronze and silver and platinum leaf

ClassificationsApplied Art

DimensionsOverall H: 8cm x L: 11.5cm W: 9cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 2008 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions.

LocationOn Display - Gallery 05

Object numberABDAG011342

Keywords

About MeKoji Hatakeyama (b. 1956) was born and grew up in Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, an area renowned for metal casting. In 1980 he graduated with a BA from Kanawaza College of Art and by 1985 he had established his own workshop. He is known for his unpretentious cast bronze articles, particularly polygon lidded boxes, which he does not necessarily intend to be functional, an innovative take on traditional Japanese vessels which were always practical. Despite their lack of utility his boxes are incredibly satisfying with their smooth and weighty form combined with a perfectly snug fitting lid. Hatakeyama describes his boxes as "doing little", yet they contain and emit mystery and are reminiscent of sarcophagi or standing stones. Characteristics of his work refer to the Japanese tradition, for example his forms are geometric and solid, yet he retains a calm and organic feel through the use of bronze and the earth coloured tones achieved through the applied patinas and firing.
More About Me

Collections Wall

Although purely decorative, this box is inspired by Japanese containers intended for a variety of functional purposes. Would you rather have boxes like these for decoration or for more practical purposes?

Exhibitions

Gallery 05 - Crafting Colour