Nov 11, 2008
Nov 11, 2008
Nov 11, 2008

Prunus Vase with Incised Peony Design

Prunus Vase with Incised Peony Design

청자 음각 모란무늬 매병 (靑磁陰刻牡丹文梅甁)

1100s-1200s

Celadon

Overall: 31.5 cm (12 3/8 in.)

Gift of John L. Severance 1921.645

Location

Did you know?

Prunus vases are often believed to contain a branch of plum blossoms, but recent researches reveal that these vases with a lid also were used to contain cooking liquid such as sesame oil.

Description

As early as the seventh century, the practice of drinking tea and wine became an important part of elite culture in Korea. Once used to store alcoholic beverages, this type of vase features a wide body followed by a sharply rounded shoulder, a short neck and a small opening. Most of the remaining examples no longer have a lid, but originally it may have had a lid that not only covered the opening, but also served as a cup.

See also
Collection: 
Korean Art
Department: 
Korean Art
Type of artwork: 
Ceramic
Medium: 
Celadon

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