Tatsuzo Shimaoka Square Vase Zogan Inlay Akae Floral Design Living National Treasure Mashiko

A distinctive square vase (kakubin) by Tatsuzo Shimaoka, a Living National Treasure of Mashiko ware, decorated with his characteristic zogan (slip inlay) and akae (overglaze enamel) techniques with a floral motif. The vase was made in Mashiko, Tochigi Prefecture.

Tatsuzo Shimaoka (1919-2007) was a Japanese ceramic artist based in Mashiko, Tochigi Prefecture, known as a leading figure of the Mashiko-yaki pottery tradition. Born in Tokyo to a family of cord-braiders, he studied ceramics at Tokyo Institute of Technology and later apprenticed under Shoji Hamada, the renowned potter who helped revive Mashiko ware. Shimaoka developed a distinctive technique called Jomon-zogan (rope-pattern inlay), combining rope-impressed decoration inspired by Jomon-period pottery with Korean-style slip inlay (mishima/zogan) techniques. His work earned wide acclaim domestically and internationally, and in 1996 he was designated a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property) for Mingei (folk craft) pottery. He continued producing works until near his death in 2007, and was also awarded the Order of the Rising Sun in 1999.

Condition: The vase is broken. It is offered at a low price for someone who can repair or restore it for use.

Please refer to the photos for the item's current appearance and condition.