The celadon prunus vase with incised lotus and scroll design () is a 12th-century Goryeo celadon acclaimed for its refined silhouette and delicate incised ornamentation. In recognition of its extraordinary artistic feature, it was designated as the 97th national treasure of South Korea in 1962. It is presently held in National Museum of Korea.
Background This type of pottery inspired by Chinese tradition and technology developed a distinctive identity and style of its own in Korea.
The artifact is classified as maebyeong, literally plum vase, which refers to a traditional East Asian vessel shape characterized by a small mouth, broad curved shoulders, and a tapering body. Produced during the golden age of Goryeo celadon in the 12th century, the vase showcases the peak of Goryeo ceramic craftsmanship—specifically the mastery of fluid form, delicate carving techniques, and the iconic bi-saek (jade-colored) glaze.
Characteristics The vessel has a height of 43.9 centimeters, a mouth diameter of 7.2 centimeters, and a base diameter of 15.8 centimeters, with an elongated, highly refined maebyeong profile. The short neck sits atop voluptuous, rounded shoulders that flow down into a slim waist before expanding gently toward the pedestal base.
The entire body is decorated with an incised lotus and vine design exhibiting dynamic movements and evenly coated with a translucent darker grayish-green celadon glaze. It is believed that the art piece was produced at the Sadang-ri kiln in Daegu-myeon of Gangjin County, Jeollanam-do.
See also
Goryeo Celadon Museum Korean pottery and porcelain Buncheong Joseon white porcelain
References
Sources
External links Sculpture and Crafts - Celadon at National Museum of Korea online Koryô Celadon at the Metropolitan Museum of Art online Goryeo Ware at Korean Heritage Channel Goryeo Celadon Museum