“Where silence gathers in shadows, and every carved petal whispers of devotion.”
This exceptional celadon vase captures the profound dialogue between artistic grace and technical mastery, realised through the highly demanding double-wall openwork technique (ijung tugak). Beginning with the creation of an inner chamber, an exquisitely pierced outer wall is formed, requiring absolute precision—any miscalculation in thickness or structure could cause the piece to fail during firing.
At the heart of the vase lies the peony motif (mokdanmun), celebrated in Korean tradition as the “King of Flowers.” The peony embodies prosperity, honour, and timeless grace, symbolising life’s most abundant and flourishing moments. On this vase, relief-carved peonies (bakji technique) bloom across the surface, their sculptural petals unfolding amidst branches and leaves that merge seamlessly into openwork spaces. This delicate interplay between solid form and void deepens the sense of movement, lightness, and breathing space.
Touches of white and red slip bring selected petals and buds into soft contrast, their hues enhancing the serene jade-green celadon glaze. These accents create a living rhythm—each bloom appearing almost luminous, as though light has been quietly woven into clay.
The vessel itself takes the shape of the Maebyeong, with its generous shoulders and slender neck. Traditionally, Maebyeong held both liquids and seasonal blossoms, embodying a form admired as much for function as for beauty.
More than a vessel, this vase is a meditation on abundance and renewal, carrying forward Goryeo traditions into the present day. It is an achievement where patience, symbolism, and poetry converge, offering a sense of timeless serenity to any space.
Dimensions
- Height- 32.5 cm (12.8 inch)
- Diameter- 22 cm (8.66 inch)
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