Plum Vase (Maebyeong) with Clouds, Cranes, and Children Motifs

Description

Celadon or green-glazed stoneware is one of the greatest achievements of Korea’s Goryeo dynasty. Goryeo potters absorbed Chinese techniques and surpassed that country’s examples by further refining a technique known as sanggam. The time-consuming and complex process of sanggam involves carving a motif, then filling it with white and/or red clay (which turns black after firing) before applying the final bluish-green glaze. This vase is decorated with two large oval-like frames containing a scene of children playing in a bamboo garden, and a motif of cranes flying through clouds, symbolizing a wish for fertility and longevity.

Provenance

Russell Tyson (1867–1963), Chicago; given to the Art Institute of Chicago, 1950.

Plum Vase (Maebyeong) with Clouds, Cranes, and Children Motifs

Goryeo dynasty (918–1392), late 12th century

Accession Number

73216

Medium

Stoneware with red and white slip and celadon glaze

Dimensions

33.4 × 19.7 cm (13 1/8 × 7 3/4 in.)

Classification

vase

Museum

The Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, United States

Credit Line

Gift of Mr. Russell Tyson