Koji Hatakeyama (畠山耕治), Japanese (b. 1956)

A Bronze Box
2009

About the work

This bronze box by Koji Hatakeyama is a finely executed sculptural object that
combines minimalist geometry with richly textured surfaces. Cast in bronze, the work
takes the form of a compact lidded vessel with sharply defined architectural lines and
a deeply patinated exterior. The vertical striations carved into the sides evoke the
appearance of weathered wood or carved stone, creating a tactile contrast against
the smoother lid and interior surfaces.
The bronze surface displays warm reddish-brown and dark umber tones, while the
interior is finished with a luminous gilt treatment that introduces a striking visual
contrast when opened. The restrained proportions and understated elegance reflect
Hatakeyama’s sculptural approach, balancing functionality with quiet monumentality.
The piece is accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako),
signed cloth, and documentation.

Dimensions

4.7cm(h) x 6.5cm(w) x 4.8cm(d)

Footnote

Koji Hatakeyama (畠山耕治, b. 1956) is a Japanese metal artist born in
Toyama Prefecture. He graduated in 1980 from the Kanazawa College of Arts and
Craft, specializing in metal casting. Based in Takaoka, a city renowned for its
centuries-old bronze casting tradition, Hatakeyama creates sculptural works
distinguished by their minimalist forms and quiet material presence. His works have
received major recognition, including the 11th Takashimaya Art Award (2000), the
Grand Prize at the Sano Renaissance Casting Exhibition (2007), and the MOA
Museum of Art Prize at the 18th MOA Okada Mokichi Award (2012). His works are
held in the collections of the National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, the Philadelphia
Museum of Art, the Danish Royal Collection, the Victoria and Albert Museum,
London, and the National Gallery of Victoria, Australia.