A highly sought-after collectible from the elite Karakuri Creation Group (KCG). Crafted in April 2024 by Yasuaki Kikuchi, this pre-owned masterpiece conceals a formidable 3D mechanical puzzle within a beautifully sculpted, premium-grade wooden sea otter.
With the "Hungry Sea Otter," master craftsman Yasuaki Kikuchi engineered a bold departure from the traditional cubic secret box. His primary motivation was to elevate the classic sliding mechanisms into a fully realized, three-dimensional spatial puzzle. The result is a piece of kinetic art where the complex internal locks are flawlessly masked by the otter's organic silhouette.
The genius of this piece lies in its thematic interactivity. Driven by his fascination with the species' ecology, Kikuchi-san designed the puzzle's mechanics to mirror the animal's natural movements. To unlock the hidden drawer concealed within the tail, collectors must physically interact with the otter, mimicking how it floats and handles its food.
Executing such a complex internal mechanism within a sculptural body requires woods of exceptional stability and beauty. The craftsman curated a rich, contrasting selection of solid woods: the deep hues of walnut and chestnut, paired with the smooth finish of magnolia and traditional katsura.
Condition: Premium pre-owned, excellent condition, see photos above
Master Craftsman: Yasuaki Kikuchi (Karakuri Creation Group)
Production Date: April 2024
Materials: Walnut, chestnut, magnolia, katsura
Body Dimensions: 16 × 8.4 × 10.4 cm
Storage Dimensions: 2.8 × 4.9 × 2.3 cm
Included: Original gift box and solution
We understand the exacting standards of KCG collectors. The intricate biomechanical movements of this pre-owned piece have been rigorously tested to ensure they operate with original factory smoothness. Shipped in highly secure packaging from our French facility, European Union buyers will receive this exclusive item swiftly and with zero customs duties.