Korean White Porcelain Jar, Korea
A Korean white porcelain jar with a distinctly regional form and a strong sense of age. Despite extensive research, however, it has not been possible to determine its exact place or date of production.
The vessel appears likely to be related to the white porcelain traditions of Hwanghae Province, including wares associated with Haeju. The region is now within present-day North Korea, and publicly accessible comparative material remains limited. For this reason, although several characteristics of the jar suggest considerable age, there is not enough evidence to securely date it to more than a century ago.
Its attribution and date therefore remain unresolved. Yet the vessel itself retains a compelling presence independent of those uncertainties. The full, swelling body is slightly irregular in form, and the freely painted decoration across the shoulder has a loose, spontaneous quality.
Chronology and established frameworks of evaluation are important, but we believe there is something that should be considered before them: the object itself.
Condition & Kintsugi Repair
Two large chips along the rim, together with cracks extending from them, were repaired with natural urushi lacquer and finished with 23.2-karat gold. One medium-sized chip and one smaller chip were repaired in the same manner.
A separate crack running around the foot was stabilized with urushi lacquer and additionally secured with two metal staples (kasugai).
Numerous pinholes are present across the body, with areas of staining around some of them. When viewed against the light, a faint iridescent sheen can also be seen across much of the glazed surface.
Dimensions
Mouth diameter: 11.4–11.8 cm
Maximum body diameter: approx. 20 cm
Height: approx. 19 cm
Foot diameter: 18.8–19.0 cm
Measurements are approximate.
Use & Care
Suitable for display as well as careful practical use.
The vessel does not leak and may be used as a flower vessel. For additional protection, however, we recommend using a separate watertight liner or inner container.
After use, empty the vessel and allow it to dry thoroughly. Avoid leaving the entire vessel submerged in water for prolonged periods.
Price
2,000 USD
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Works can be viewed in person at the YACCA studio in Fukuoka by appointment.
Item No: VS-016