Early Korean White Ceramic Stem Bowl Joseon Dynasty

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A celadon ceramic stem bowl with impressive patina from Korea, circa 17th centuries of mid Joseon Dynasty. With high cylindrical … Read more A celadon ceramic stem bowl with impressive patina from Korea, circa 17th centuries of mid Joseon Dynasty. With high cylindrical pedestal foot supporting an open and generous bowl, by shape, this bowl appears to be a ceremonial vessel that was used to make ritual offerings on the altar.
Of elegant archaistic form and harmonious proportion, this stem bowl is potted heavily with thick walls covered with a white glaze with a tint of celadon. On the bottom of the well, there is an incised circumventing line, and in the center, a subtly carved scroll pattern, indicating that this vessel may be of the nature of ritual use. What strikes the viewer more is its deep patina. There is a pronounced crackles that cover the entire piece evenly, this character calls to mind the Ge Kiln ware from China that highlights crack lines as the sole decoration. Much of the crackle lines retain a deeper mellow color left from the stains seeping from the contents it has held in its long life. The simplicity of this piece conveys a deep appreciation of humbleness and exemplifies a vigorous and restrained aesthetic at the time. The base rim is not glazed and reveals a coarse sandy iron-rich clay, some kiln grits and a couple of fire crackles.
During Joseon dynasty, the social morals were largely centered on the principles of Confucianism that originated from China. Many ritual ceramic wares were produced for rituals and worships on all level of the society. The ware was often modeled after the archaic bronze ware that elevated them from the aesthetic of daily use pieces. High foot dish like this were made in both round and square shape to suite different uses and they might be distinguished with the inscription for their exclusive ceremonial purpose. See less