Tatsuzo Shimaoka (島岡達三), Japanese (1919-2007)

An Inlaid Jomon-Style Ash Vessel with Polychrome Floral Roundels (練上縄文象嵌赤絵草花文灰皿)

Showa Era (1926-1989) or Heisei Era (1989-2019) 

About the work

A striking ash vessel by Tatsuzo Shimaoka, Living National Treasure, celebrated for his innovative jomon zogan (cord-marked inlay) technique. The surface features an alternating checkerboard ground in soft pink and black, over which roundels of vividly painted polychrome floral motifs are arranged, creating a lively contrast of texture and color.

The cylindrical form is robust yet refined, with Shimaoka’s hallmark rope-impressed inlay lending rhythmic tactility to the surface. The underside reveals a contrasting checkerboard clay pattern, further attesting to Shimaoka’s mastery of clay design.

The work is accompanied by its original signed tomobako (wooden storage box), ensuring authenticity.

Dimensions

8.8cm(h) x 14.7cm(w)

Footnote

Tatsuzo Shimaoka, born in Tokyo in 1919, was an acclaimed Japanese potter who became a Living National Treasure in 1996. He was known for his development of Jomon Zogan—an inlay technique combining traditional Japanese rope patterns with slip inlay inspired by Korean pottery. Shimaoka studied under the legendary Shoji Hamada, known as the "Reviver of Mashiko Ware," and later established himself as an independent potter. His work carries forward the folk art ethos, blending old traditions with innovation, making significant contributions to the global appreciation of Mashiko ware.