Lobed Vase, Celadon

This celadon bottle was reportedly handed down from the tomb of King Injong (17th king of Goryeo, r. 1122-1146). It represents the very highest quality of both color and shape of 12th-century Goryeo celadon, and is thus an essential artifact for studying the celadon ware of the period. This style was originally derived from Chinese bronze liquor bottles; it was produced in ceramic form within the Northern Song Dynasty and then transmitted to Korea. But the Chinese versions of this bottle typically have a very large mouth and a voluptuous body, while this Goryeo bottle has a perfectly balanced shape, accentuated by the gorgeous glaze.