Celadon Prunus Vase with Inlaid Cloud and Crane Design

Basic information

Designation

National Treasure No.68

Category

Craft

Era

고려시대(12세기 후반)

Designated year

1962

Location

성북구, 서울특별시— 서울 성북구 성북로 102-11, 간송미술관 (성북동,간송미술관)

Coordinates

37.589116, 127.018215

This type of ceramic vessel, generally called “prunus vase,” originated with the Song Dynasty of China; its unparalleled new aesthetic beauty was achieved by Goryeo potters in the 12th century. Goryeo’s prunus vases are characterized by a voluminous body showcasing attractively curvaceous lines. This particular prunus vase of Goryeo has height of 42.1 centimeters, mouth dimension of 6.2 centimeters, and foot dimension of 17 centimeters. It displays a low, small mouth with gently flared rim and wide, voluminous shoulder. Just above the foot are a circular floral design under the mouth and a lotus band. The main part of the body is covered with black and white inlaid design of cranes flying between clouds wherein those inside the double circles -- also inlaid with black and white slips -- fly upward and those outside fly downward. Art historians conjecture that the depiction of birds flying in two different directions represents the artist’s quest for freedom from a space limited by the vase by stretching it outside the material boundaries in all directions. With the outstanding workmanship in terms of the application of decorative motifs and the successful quest for new aesthetic possibility with the traditional artistic medium, this prunus vase is often regarded as one of the finest examples of the excellent artistic creativity and manual skills of Goryeo celadon potters.

Location