Maebyeong (Vase), Celadon with Incised Lotus Scroll Design

This style of vase, with a wide upper body that curves to become more narrow towards the foot, is called a maebyeong, from the Chinese meiping (梅瓶, “plum vase”). The delicate feminine shape of this vase, made during the golden age of Goryeo celadon, exemplifies the beautiful curves of Goryeo celadon. The surface is sumptuously incised with a lotus scroll design, and the soft, repetitive curves of the lotus harmonize beautifully with the maebyeong shape.