Covered jar
With its balanced proportions, undecorated surface, and lid with a bud-shaped knob, the large jar reflects the refined aesthetics of the new ruling ideology of Neo-Confucianism during the Joseon dynasty. Pure white vessels like this were used as special tableware and also for ceremony and burial.
The miniature version is an example of the myeonggi (spirit goods) made especially for burial. It would have been part of a set of tiny objects. The rise in popularity of myeonggi illustrates a change in funerary customs that aligned with Neo-Confucian practices.
Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.