Celadon Yanggagunryongmun Maebyeong (Plum Vase)

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.1385

Category

Craft

Era

고려시대(12세기)

Designated year

2003

Location

용산구, 서울특별시— 서울특별시 용산구 이태원로55길 60-16 (한남동, 삼성박물관 리움)

Coordinates

37.536528, 126.996187

This mid-Goryeo celadon vase is a classical prunus vase which is not only rather large in size, but is also remarkable for its majestic shape and the realistic underglaze design motifs which enhance its elegant curves. The body of the vase flaunts two pairs of large dragons facing each other in a manner to completely fill the surface area. On the shoulder, in the area immediately around the neck, and in the area near the base, there are small swirling cloud design carved in shallow and wide incised lines. The image depicts four dragons rising toward the sky from an open, agitated sea, while playing with a cintamani. The auspicious clouds surrounding the dragons help intensify the mythical atmosphere of the scene. The glaze surface, light bluish green in color, is quite clear and not crackled. The tiny trapped air bubbles give the discreetly glossy surface a touch of opacity. This prunus vase appears to have been used in the royal palace. The spirited dragons full of life, the stormy sea and quietly swirling clouds underline and flatter the elegance of its shape, as does the subtle bluish green hue of the glaze. A masterpiece of celadon making, this vase bears excellent testimony to Goryeo ceramic art at its height.

Location