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Monochrome Celadon Wares

Koryo celadon wares are among the most widely admired Korean ceramics. Early in the twelfth century, Korean potters developed the celebrated glazes, refined forms, and naturalistic designs that won high praise from Chinese observers, one of whom pronounced Korean celadons as “first under Heaven.” Koryo glazes were prized for their exceptional translucence and subtle blue-green or gray-green color, which derives from the presence of small amounts of iron oxide in the glaze.

The clarity of the glazes facilitated the development of decorative techniques, such as incising, carving, and sculpting, that were not possible with the thicker, more opaque celadon glazes of China.

The popular decorative motif of water fowl among reeds that appears on the gourd-shaped ewer and the kundika bottle combines Korean aesthetic sensibilities and strong interest in naturalistic imagery. The preference for decorative effect is also seen in the water dropper in the shape of a duck, an essential article in the scholar's study. The sculpted duck holding a vine in its mouth is evidence of the potter is superb craftsmanship. That such care was lavished on small, utilitarian objects attests to the refined lifestyle of the Koryo aristocracy.

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