A pair of yunomi tea cups by Shimaoka Tatsuzo (1919-2007), designated a Living National Treasure of Japan in 1996 for his mastery of Jomon-zogan inlay technique. Each cup is decorated with rope-impressed patterns inlaid with white slip, accented by iron-oxide brushwork in earthy red tones. The diagonal jomon cord patterns wrap around the body in rhythmic bands, creating the unmistakable signature style that Shimaoka developed by fusing his master Hamada Shoji's mingei philosophy with ancient Jomon pottery techniques. The contrast between the matte stoneware surface and the bold abstract motifs gives each cup a quiet, sculptural presence in the hand. Shimaoka studied directly under Hamada Shoji at Mashiko, and went on to exhibit and teach worldwide - in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Australia. His works are held in major museum collections including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Signed with the artist's "Ta" mark on the foot. Comes with the original signed wooden box (tomobako) and the artist's biographical leaflet (shiori). Works by Shimaoka Tatsuzo are no longer in production. This is a finite body of work. 【Artist Profile】 Shimaoka Tatsuzo (1919-2007) was a Japanese ceramic artist and Living National Treasure (Ningen Kokuho), recognized in 1996 for his Jomon-zogan technique - a method combining ancient Jomon rope-impression with Korean-style mishima inlay. A direct disciple of Hamada Shoji, he established his own kiln in Mashiko in 1953 and became one of the most internationally celebrated mingei potters of the 20th century. 【Condition】 Excellent. Minor signs of age commensurate with careful storage. 【Shipping】 Carefully packed and shipped internationally with full tracking for safe delivery. 【※Important Information – Please Read Before Bidding※】 Customs duties, VAT, and import clearance fees are not included in the shipping cost and are the responsibility of the buyer. These charges vary depending on your country's import regulations and are beyond the seller's control. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. All items are carefully packed and promptly shipped with tracking to ensure safe delivery. Please bid with confidence.