Asian Porcelain Appraisal

A recent contents appraisal we completed for one of our local estate clients included this large and impressive Korean celadon glazed covered coro.

Korean Celadon glazed Coro 17"

Our recent Asian porcelain appraisal project included this lovely piece. It is decorated with handpainted depictions of cranes in flight around the body perimeter includes the applied zoomorphic finial lid, large mask and ring handles, this lovely piece is further ornamented with intricate geometric pierced designs to both the body and lid, with an overall height of approx. 17”

Asian Porcelain Appraisal - Korean Celadon Glazed Porcelains: A Reflection of Artistic Tradition and Innovation

Korean celadon glazed porcelains are a remarkable achievement in the history of ceramic art. With their roots tracing back to the Three Kingdoms period (57 BCE – 668 CE), these ceramics have evolved through various stages of refinement, reaching their pinnacle during the Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392). The combination of delicate glaze, intricate inlays, and understated elegance has made Korean celadon highly prized both in Korea and internationally. In this exploration, we will delve into the historical development, aesthetic qualities, techniques, and cultural significance of Korean celadon glazed porcelains.

The Historical Development of Korean Celadon

The history of Korean celadon pottery is closely linked to the broader history of ceramic production in East Asia. Early Korean ceramics were influenced by Chinese techniques, particularly during the Tang Dynasty (618–907). Korean potters began to experiment with various glazing methods and decorative techniques, including the use of celadon, a type of glazed ceramic with a translucent, pale greenish hue, which is thought to have been introduced from China or the Korean Peninsula’s cultural exchanges with China.

The Goryeo Dynasty, which reigned from 918 to 1392, marked the golden age of Korean celadon production. This period saw the refinement of the celadon glaze and the emergence of a distinct style of pottery that combined Korean sensibilities with Chinese influences. The Goryeo Dynasty's embrace of Confucian values and Buddhist culture led to the development of celadon as a highly revered craft, with porcelain ware being used for both everyday purposes and religious rituals.

During the Goryeo period, the production of celadon reached its zenith, driven by the establishment of official kilns. These kilns, concentrated in regions such as Gangjin, are renowned for their production of high-quality ceramics. The celadon ware produced during this time featured not only exquisite glazes but also intricate decoration, including inlays and carvings, which set them apart from the simpler utilitarian ceramics of earlier periods.

However, with the advent of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897), the aesthetic preferences in Korea shifted towards simplicity, and celadon production gradually declined. Despite this, the legacy of Goryeo celadon has continued to be influential, with modern Korean potters and collectors maintaining a strong appreciation for these historical ceramics.

The Aesthetic Qualities of Korean Celadon Glazed Porcelains

Korean celadon is best known for its serene, translucent green glaze, which is achieved through a unique combination of glaze chemistry and firing techniques. The green color of the glaze is the result of iron oxide in the clay body, which reacts during the firing process. The glaze often has a smooth, glassy appearance, sometimes with hints of blue or yellow, depending on the firing conditions. The celadon glaze is transparent enough to allow the underlying clay body to show through, giving the porcelain a luminous, almost ethereal quality.

One of the most iconic aspects of Korean celadon is its use of inlay and carving techniques to decorate the surface of the pottery. These techniques include sanggam, a method of inlaying colored slip into the carved designs, creating a striking contrast between the dark inlaid patterns and the pale green glaze. The designs on Goryeo celadon often feature motifs from nature, such as lotus flowers, peonies, birds, and fish, as well as more abstract patterns like clouds and waves. The inlay method not only highlights the skill of the artist but also contributes to the depth and texture of the pottery.

Another distinctive feature of Korean celadon is its fine craftsmanship. The potters of the Goryeo period employed a variety of advanced techniques to ensure that their celadon ware was of the highest quality. These included the careful selection of clay, the meticulous application of glaze, and the precise control of kiln temperatures. The result was an elegant, sophisticated porcelain that was prized for its refined aesthetic and technical mastery.

The Techniques Behind Korean Celadon Glazed Porcelains

The creation of Korean celadon is a labor-intensive process that involves multiple steps, each requiring great skill and attention to detail. The first stage of the process is the preparation of the clay body. The clay is carefully selected for its fine texture, which is essential for producing the smooth, even surface that is characteristic of celadon. The clay is then shaped into the desired form, whether it is a simple bowl, vase, or more complex object such as a ewer or incense burner.

Once the piece has been shaped and dried, the artist applies the celadon glaze. The glaze itself is a mixture of silica, alumina, and various metal oxides, with iron being the key component responsible for the green color. The glaze is applied in a thin, even layer over the entire surface of the pottery, and the piece is then fired in a kiln. The firing process is critical to achieving the perfect celadon glaze, as the temperature and atmosphere within the kiln must be carefully controlled. Typically, the pottery is fired at high temperatures in an oxidizing environment, with the glaze becoming more transparent as it fuses to the clay body.

The next stage of decoration involves the application of inlaid or carved designs. Inlaying involves carving or etching the surface of the clay, then filling the carved areas with colored slips (liquid clay) to create patterns or motifs. These slips are usually made from materials such as iron or copper, and when fired, they create a stark contrast with the pale celadon glaze. The most common motifs found in Goryeo celadon include floral designs, birds, animals, and geometric patterns.

The final step is the second firing, which is done at a lower temperature to solidify the glaze and inlay. The result is a beautifully finished piece with a glossy, translucent surface and intricate, finely detailed decoration.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Korean celadon glazed porcelains have deep cultural and religious significance. During the Goryeo Dynasty, celadon pottery was used in various religious and cultural contexts, reflecting the period’s Buddhist influence. Many celadon pieces were created for use in Buddhist ceremonies, such as incense burners, offering vessels, and ritual objects. The refined nature of the ceramics was seen as a reflection of the purity and serenity associated with Buddhist practices.

Furthermore, celadon was often associated with the elite classes of Goryeo society. As a luxury item, it was highly valued by royalty and the aristocracy. The intricate decorations on the ceramics not only displayed the wealth and sophistication of their owners but also conveyed important cultural and religious messages. For example, lotus motifs symbolized purity, while images of birds and animals were often imbued with symbolic meanings, representing harmony with nature or spiritual ideals.

Beyond religious and social functions, Korean celadon ware also played a significant role in diplomacy and trade. During the Goryeo period, celadon was highly regarded in China and Japan, and it became an important export. The trade of celadon pottery facilitated cultural exchanges between these countries, further solidifying Korea’s position as a center of ceramic production.

Conclusion

Korean celadon glazed porcelains represent a synthesis of artistic expression, technical innovation, and cultural significance. The delicate beauty of celadon pottery, with its translucent glaze and intricate decoration, is a testament to the skill and creativity of the artisans who created it. Over the centuries, Korean celadon has remained an enduring symbol of Korea's rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions.

From its peak during the Goryeo Dynasty to its continued influence on modern ceramics, Korean celadon continues to be admired for its elegance and refinement. Today, collectors and art enthusiasts around the world continue to appreciate the unique beauty of Korean celadon, ensuring that this extraordinary tradition of porcelain production remains a vital part of Korea’s artistic legacy.