Korean Scholar's Objects

A ceramic dish with high cylindrical foot in white glaze from Korea, circa 19th century late Joseon Dynasty. By shape, this piece appears to be a ceremonial vessel that was used to make offerings on the altar. Although without inscription, we can't rule out that it could be a household item for occasions that were less formal. Such as a private shrine in the household or even daily use for presenting foods. During Joseon dynasty, the social morals were largely centered on the principles of Confucianism that originated from China. Many ritual ceramic wares were produced for rituals and worships on all level of the society. The ware was often modeled after the archaic bronze ware...

A rare and very well-preserved folding floor screen from Korea circa early 20th century. This type of screen is called Chaekgeori (books and things) which is quite unique to Korea. It became popular at the end of 18th century favored and encouraged by King Jeongjo (1752-1800) as a political tool to promote social conservatism such as the traditional Confucianism value, especially considered important in a time when waves of new ideology influx came to Korea. Initially commissioned for the royal court, they became increasingly popular with the scholars of noble and affluent household and used it widely in their halls and studies. Early screens were painted with trompe-l’oeil bookcases displaying books and arrays of collectibles. Later, the bookcases were eliminated to focus on the assemblage of neatly stacked books and objects of scholarly pursue. On this screen, the six panels were neatly presented and framed in woven brocade borders. Among the stacked volumes, one can find many fine porcelain vases with flowers, potted orchids, pen holders with brush pens and scroll paintings, incense burner, ink stone, teapot, fan with ink painting, vessels of fruits, exotic plants such as lotus, plumeria and even a pair of glasses. It feels like a pleasant visual measure hunting for the viewers. Several words in Chinese found their way into the picture as well, including filial (xiao), longevity (shou) and luck (fu). The painting was done in a meticulous way with no details overlooked and also with a rather western still-life dimensional perspective. In a rather unusual maximal but also minimalistic way, the screen exudes a folky charm but appears modern at the same time. Each panel is 17.5"w by 70.2"h. For general information on the subject see reference: Chaekgeori the Power and Pleasure of Possessions in Korean Painted Screens...

This Korean ceramic storage jar is dated to late Joseon or Yi dynasty, circa 19th century. It has a Classic rounded form with a short mouth lip and base ring, slightly irregular from...

A wonderful vintage Korean brass jewelry cabinet with inset reverse painted ox horn panels, 1940s. The jewelry chest, or possibly collectors cabinet, is in th...

A rare and beautiful Korean brass-mounted pearwood scholar's box. Of simple form and construction, conforming to Confucian literati ideals, the rectangular box has minimal decoratio...

Bandaji book storage chest, Chonju-style, three drawers above double doors and drop door in center, with handle on either side, with Chinese locks, early 20th century, Korean.