Celadon Incense Burner with Openwork Auspicious-character Design Lid

Basic information

Designation

National Treasure No.95

Category

Craft

Era

고려시대(12세기)

Designated year

1962

Location

용산구, 서울특별시— 서울특별시 용산구 서빙고로 137 (용산동6가, 국립중앙박물관)

Coordinates

37.524041, 126.980350

With height of 15.3 centimeters and pedestal diameter of 11.2 centimeters, this celadon incense burner -- made during the early Goryeo period -- consists of three sections: the lid, the body, and the pedestal. The lid is divided into two sub-sections, with the upper section featuring an openwork globe ornamented with a coin motif known as “seven-treasure design” (Chilbomun) and the disk-shaped lower section supporting the knob above. The body also consists of two sub-sections: the incense-burning bowl covered with chrysanthemum leaves and the feet shaped like chrysanthemum leaves, and the pedestal shaped like a tri-lobed disk supported by three rabbits whose eyes are rendered by black slip dots. The side of the pedestal is decorated with an incised vine design, whereas the openwork knob is further ornamented with white slip dots inlaid on the areas where circles are intersected. The entire body is coated with grayish-green celadon glaze emitting a soft luster. The use of various decoration techniques and the outstanding proportion and balance that create an increased sense of stability make the burner one of the finest masterpieces of Goryeo celadon potters.

Location