Korean White Ceramic Jar with Blue Underglaze Painting Joseon Dynasty

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A Korean ceramic storage jar in the classic shape with broad shoulder, gently tapered body, a short neck with a … Read more A Korean ceramic storage jar in the classic shape with broad shoulder, gently tapered body, a short neck with a large opening. The jar is covered in a white glaze and decorated with sparse but lovely underglaze blue paint. It was estimated to be circa 18th century of Joseon Dynasty. The front and back of the jar feature a large double-lined cartouche. Within the frame, chrysanthemums blossom takes the center stage, flanked by flowering orchids, grass with ears of seeds, and butterflies in the air. The painting was done with delicate thin brush stroke, humble and effective, reflecting the spirit of Confucianism one would find in the literati painting in the Joseon society. The short neck was circumvented with a ring of linked auspicious cloud in the shape of mushroom heads. Toward the base, there was another blue circular ring painted in thin blue line.
Examining the jar closely, one could see a deep patina naturally acquired from the age and extensive use. The glazed surface shows off pervasive fine crackle lines, which with age have become embedded veins from absorbing a darker color. A few noticeable lines seep through the wall and form a faint mirror image from exterior to interior. There is noticeable discoloration on the body, mostly on the lower half of the body, as a result of being soaked and stained by the liquid stored in the jar for long period of time. The base is unglazed and shows contact wears as well as a couple of small chips.
From a Japanese Collection.
Reference: for a related jar, see acc no. 20502 in the ATAKA collection of the Museum of Oriental Ceramics in Osaka, Japan. It is illustrated on page 125 of the book "The Radiance of Jade and the Clarity of Water: Korean Ceramics from the AKATA collection". See less