What Is Korean Pottery
Korean pottery refers to various types of ceramic objects made in Korea, including earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain.
It has a longstanding history dating back to ancient times.
One of the most renowned examples of Korean pottery is the moon jar, which is a national symbol of Korea.
Moon jars represent the aesthetics of “squashed ceramics” and Korean artistic sensibilities.
Goryeo celadon, introduced from China in the 12th century, developed a unique jade green hue and inlaying technique using white and red clay.
It is distinguished by its down-to-earth aesthetics and was praised for its beauty by Chinese courtiers.
Korean pottery has influenced succeeding ceramic breeds, such as porcelain and buncheong ware.
Moon jars from the 17th and 18th centuries embody the breezy and free-flowing realm of arts.
Despite its significance, only around 30 moon jars remain today.
Korean pottery can be differentiated from Chinese wares by its distinct forms, unique proportions, and decorative styles.
Did You Know?
1. Korean pottery, known as “moon jars,” get their name from their simple, round shape resembling a full moon.
2. Jeongnim, a traditional technique used in Korean pottery, involves adding a layer of clear glazing to enhance the natural color of the clay, giving it a glossy appearance.
3. Korean pottery played a significant role in trade between Korea, China, and Japan during the 12th century.
4. The famous “Blue and White” porcelain originated in Korea during the Joseon Dynasty and later influenced Chinese and Japanese pottery.
5. Buncheong, a unique Korean pottery style from the 15th century, utilized decorative techniques such as finger-painting and inlaying white slip onto the surface of the pottery to create intricate designs.
The History of Korean Pottery
Korean pottery has a fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. The rich heritage of Korean ceramics showcases the country’s artistic skill and cultural importance. One notable type of pottery is the celadon pottery, known for its elegance. Another unique type is the moon jar, which is believed to have originated in the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). Moon jars have come to symbolize Korea and represent the artistic ideals of simplicity, balance, and harmony. These jars reflect the Korean preference for natural and restrained beauty in art.
During the Joseon Dynasty, potters had a specific method for creating moon jars. The jars were made in two separate parts, which were later joined together and kiln-baked. This technique ensured that the jars achieved their distinctive shape and durable nature. Unfortunately, there are only a limited number of moon jars remaining today, as they were primarily used as kitchenware and not treated as valuable artifacts. Nevertheless, their exquisite craftsmanship and historical significance continue to captivate art enthusiasts worldwide.
The Symbolism of Moon Jars in Korean Pottery
Moon jars play a unique and significant role in Korean pottery. They not only showcase the elegance of squashed ceramics but also encapsulate the essence of Korean art. These jars represent the blending of tradition and innovation, highlighting the nation’s ability to revise and refine artistic techniques.
The 17th and 18th-century moon jars embody the breezy and free-flowing realm of arts. Their simple and unadorned appearance creates a sense of tranquility and calmness. The rounded shape of the moon jar resembles a full moon, symbolizing the wholeness and completeness of the universe. In Korean culture, the full moon is seen as a symbol of good fortune and abundance.
Contemporary artists like Kim Whanki and Kang Ik-joong draw inspiration from the moon jar in their work. The timeless beauty and aesthetic principles explored through moon jars continue to inspire these artists and evoke a sense of wonder.
Celadon Pottery in Korea: A Unique Hue and Inlaying Technique
Celadon pottery has a significant place in Korean ceramics, with its origins in China and arrival in Korea during the 12th century. This artistic medium quickly became highly valued and sought-after in Korea. Korean potters infused their unique style and techniques into celadon, resulting in a distinct identity.
One particular type of celadon, known as Goryeo celadon, developed during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). It is renowned for its stunning jade green hue, achieved through a meticulous glazing process. In addition to its unique color, Goryeo celadon employed an inlaying technique using white and red clay. This involved carving intricate designs into the pottery and filling them with contrasting colored clay, creating exquisite patterns and textures.
What sets Goryeo celadon apart from its Chinese counterparts is its down-to-earth aesthetics. Unlike Chinese celadon, which aimed for polished perfection, the imperfections and irregularities of Goryeo celadon were embraced. These asymmetries and irregular cracks actually elevated the rarity and uniqueness of the ceramics, making them highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs.
Goryeo Celadon: Distinct Aesthetics and Chinese Recognition
The beauty of Goryeo celadon was highly praised by Chinese courtiers, with many recognizing its exceptional quality and distinct aesthetics. The eloquent simplicity of Goryeo celadon resonated with the refined sensibilities of the Chinese elite. The appreciation and demand for Goryeo celadon resulted in extensive trade between Korea and China, further solidifying its prominence in the realm of ceramics.
The spirit of aesthetics embodied in Goryeo celadon continued to influence succeeding ceramic breeds. This influence can be seen in the development of porcelain and buncheong pottery. Porcelain emerged as a new ceramic form, while buncheong pottery appealed to Japanese enthusiasts with its effortless void and casual crockery style.
Korean pottery holds a significant place in the world of ceramics, with Goryeo celadon acting as a beacon of artistry and cultural exchange. Its innovation and unique aesthetics continue to inspire artists and enthusiasts alike.
The Influence of Korean Pottery on Modern Artists and Japanese Enthusiasts
The impact of Korean pottery extends far beyond its historical origins, continuing to captivate contemporary artists and art enthusiasts around the world. The timeless beauty and artistic principles of Korean ceramics have served as a wellspring of inspiration for modern artists seeking to explore their own creative expression.
Moon jars, with their simplicity and aesthetic allure, have left an enduring mark on the art world. Renowned artists such as Kim Whanki and Kang Ik-joong have drawn inspiration from the distinctive shapes and styles of moon jars in their works. This fusion of traditional Korean ceramics with modern artistic sensibilities showcases the enduring relevance and appeal of Korean pottery.
Furthermore, Korean pottery, specifically buncheong ware, has garnered a dedicated following in Japan. The effortless void and casual crockery style of Korean pottery resonates deeply with Japanese enthusiasts, who appreciate its understated elegance and organic aesthetic.
Korean pottery’s ability to leave a lasting impression on modern artists and captivate international audiences speaks to its timeless appeal and enduring significance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Korean pottery called?
The traditional pottery of Korea is known as Onggi. Onggi pottery has a long history, dating back to prehistoric times. It is recognized for its unique reddish-brown color and is made from sandy clay. Onggi pottery has a distinctive appearance, often featuring comb-like patterns similar to combware, the main pottery type of the Korean Neolithic Period.
What is Korean pottery made of?
The exquisite Korean pottery is crafted using a combination of kaolin and petuntse. Kaolin, a unique white clay, and petuntse (known as Chinastone) form the essential ingredients for its creation. Referred to as baekja, or white ware, in Korean, the Joseon dynasty embraced the allure of this pristine hue, shifting the focus from green ceramics of the Goryeo dynasty. By blending these distinct materials, Korean potters masterfully construct their renowned porcelain pieces.
What are the characteristics of Korean pottery?
Korean pottery is renowned for its unique characteristics. Vessels often display a minimalist elegance, with simple linear designs engraved on the surface, showcasing a delicate balance between simplicity and sophistication. Additionally, Korean pottery stands out with its distinctive technique called sanggam, where intricate black, red, brown, and white clay inlays are meticulously added before applying a translucent slip. This technique adds depth and complexity to the designs, creating a mesmerizing visual effect that sets Korean pottery apart. The combination of these elements results in a pottery tradition that is both subtle and refined, capturing the essence of Korean artistry.
What is the difference between Chinese pottery and Korean pottery?
Chinese pottery and Korean pottery have distinct differences in their design and aesthetics. Korean ceramics are known for their lobed and pear-shaped forms, which set them apart from the jar-shaped pottery commonly found in China. Additionally, Korean ware typically lacks the twisted rope handles that are commonly used in Chinese pottery. The asymmetry of the large Korean jars adds to their unique character. Moreover, there is a stark contrast in the visual appeal of the two pottery traditions. Korean pottery tends to have a thicker and more organic appearance, often showcasing natural earth colors. On the other hand, Chinese pottery tends to be thinner and lighter, with more precise geometric shapes and brighter hues. These differences highlight the contrasting artistic expressions and cultural influences of the two nations.
