Tokoname ware meoto yunomi set by Kato Kazufusa

For my 1000th post here is a serendipitous purchase which embodies both my new interest in Tokoname ware and my ongoing interest in Japanese couple cups, meoto yunomi. The larger cup is 3.5" high x 2.25" in diameter and the smaller is 3.25" high x 2" in diameter. Both are marked on the bottom with a potter's mark. The cups are only decorated on one side. This set is by a well known potter, so probably came with a tomobako.

https://japanese-ceramics.com/kato-kazufusa%E5%8A%A0%E8%97%A4%E4%B8%80%E6%88%BF/

Dictionary of Japanese Potters:

Kato Kazufusa
1949-
male
tokoname pottery

He made his ceramic name “Shukei”. Studied under Jinshu, a veteran of Tokoname ware. Awarded at the Japan Traditional Craft Exhibition, Tokai Traditional Craft Exhibition, Asahi Ceramic Art Exhibition, Chunichi International Ceramic Art Exhibition, Japan New Craft Exhibition, and the Chosan Award for Excellence at the Ceramic Art Exhibition. Awarded the Excellence Prize at the Chubu Yomiuri Art Exhibition, etc. Tea pot, tea caddy, tea container and incense case using scorched surface coloring, jun-style and tobi-kanna technique.

Also known as Shukei Kato.

As much Tokoname ware is, this pair have deeply carved features complementing the decoration and design. The interiors appear to be porcelain lined, probably to make them easier to use. Tokoname ware is typically not glazed and requires special care to use. Lining the interiors, I think, is probably an attempt to alleviate this issue.