Celadon Plate: Relief-Applied Tiger and Magpie Motif by Master Artisan

“Where mischief meets tradition, and stillness is only surface-deep.“

This handcrafted Korean celadon decorative plate—meticulously created by master artisan Kwon Oh-Hak of Icheon—features a captivating relief-carved scene of a tiger, magpie, and pine tree, rendered in exquisite harmony. At 32 cm in diameter, its commanding presence graces any room with quiet authority and playful tension.

Beneath the distinctive crackled celadon glaze—cool and serene like early morning mist—unfolds a scene both folkloric and symbolic. A white tiger, expression torn between charm and defiance, sits crouched beneath a pine tree. Above him, a solitary magpie tilts its head, as though engaged in a silent dialogue. The visual balance between the grounded bulk of the tiger and the perch of the bird creates a moment of theatrical stillness—reminiscent of Korea’s traditional minhwa (folk paintings), where animals often stood in for human satire and yearning.

The plate’s surface is carved and layered using a combined technique of incising and relief carving, adding sculptural texture and visual depth. The contrast of earthy pigments—used sparingly but purposefully—brings focus to the figures without overwhelming the cool celadon backdrop. Notably, the pine needles, the magpie’s beak, and the tiger’s wild fur lines are all sharply articulated, revealing the craftsman’s patient hand and mastery of form.

In Korean tradition, the magpie is a bearer of good news, while the tiger is a guardian—sometimes fearsome, sometimes foolish, always powerful. Their pairing (Ho-Jak) is iconic, often seen in New Year paintings symbolising protection, happiness, and a prosperous year to come. Here, the scene is rendered not with folkish exaggeration, but with elegant restraint—inviting the viewer to interpret the tension, humour, or harmony behind the exchange.

Whether displayed on a wall or resting on a wooden stand, this piece is more than a decorative plate—it is a sculpted narrative in celadon, where folklore, symbolism, and form unite. For collectors seeking a piece that embodies both technical excellence and cultural richness, it offers not only beauty but presence.

Dimensions

• Diameter- 32cm (12.6 inch)
• Height- 5cm (1.97 inch)

Related Links

• About Celadon

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All information supplied through the Site is for informational purposes regarding the history and care of traditional Korean crafts. While we guarantee 100% authentic materials, Artinko is not responsible for damage caused by improper handling, such as using non-food-safe decorative items for dining or using harsh chemicals on delicate Mother-of-Pearl surfaces.

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