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Korean antique ceramic vase / Goryeo dynasty / 13th century / “maebyeong”
$1,000
£754
€868.88
CA$1,387.27
A$1,554.43
CHF 809.14
MX$19,016.05
NOK 10,270.53
SEK 9,700.39
DKK 6,486.40
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About the Item
This is a ceramic piece produced on the Korean Peninsula during the late Goryeo dynasty, around the 13th century. It features the classical shape known as a “maebyeong” (梅瓶), a traditional vessel form unique to East Asian ceramics.
"Mae" (梅) means plum, and "byeong" (瓶) means bottle or vase.
The maebyeong is characterized by a small mouth, a rounded shoulder, and an elegant S-shaped silhouette that gently curves inward before flaring out again at the base. The name “maebyeong” is said to derive either from the resemblance of its form to the slender trunk of a plum tree, or from its suitability for holding single branches of plum blossoms.
This particular piece inherits the quintessential characteristics of the maebyeong, with a modest yet resolute presence. While originally inspired by Song dynasty ceramics from China, Goryeo artisans infused the form with their own distinct sensibility, elevating it to a shape that embodies simplicity and quiet beauty.
The surface is covered in what is known as “black glaze,” rich in iron content. However, the glaze is not uniformly black. Instead, it presents a subdued gradation of muted gray-green tones, with variations and subtle fluctuations that reflect the natural flow of glaze and kiln atmosphere during firing. Notably, you can see streaks of glaze dripping from the shoulder to the foot, creating an organic and poetic landscape across the surface.
The clay body beneath shows a grayish tone, the result of a traditional firing technique called “reduction firing.” This method reduces oxygen within the kiln, causing a chemical reaction that alters the appearance of the iron in the clay. The result is a unique coloration and texture—an expressive surface that captures the intimate dialogue between earth and flame. It is a technique that speaks to the hands-on, organic spirit of traditional craftsmanship.
Measuring 23.5 cm in height and 10.5 cm in diameter, the vase has a presence that is both substantial and easily manageable. It brings a sense of calm and stillness to any space, whether placed in a traditional Japanese room or a modern interior. Water retention has been tested with two-thirds of the vase filled for several hours, and no leakage was observed. Still, we recommend thoroughly drying the interior after use to maintain its condition over time.
The greatest charm of this piece lies in the contrast between its rough, unrefined texture—embodying the aesthetic of wabi-sabi—and the graceful, refined contour of its form. It avoids any hint of flamboyance, instead honoring stillness, simplicity, and the beauty of empty space. This quiet design invites the viewer into a deeper sense of tranquility and contemplation.
A wooden storage box is included, making it ideal not only for safekeeping but also as a thoughtful gift. A similar design is documented in art reference books, lending this piece both aesthetic and historical significance. Priced accessibly to help more people discover the beauty of antique ceramics, this is a vase that deserves to be quietly placed in your living space—where it will resonate with a deep, meditative calm.
Dimensions: Diameter 10.5 cm × Height 23.5 cm
Weight: 681g
Item No.: PO361
- Dimensions:Height: 9.26 in (23.5 cm)Diameter: 4.14 in (10.5 cm)
- Style:Other (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:13th century
- Condition:There is a small chip on the edge of the tip, but I don't think it will affect the viewing experience.
- Seller Location:Sammu-shi, JP
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU5487245944062
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