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Celadon Prunus Vase with Inlaid Chrysanthemum, Peony, Willow, Heron, and Bamboo Design and Bamboo Strip

청자 상감국화모란유로죽문 매병 및 죽찰 ( 靑磁 象嵌菊花牡丹柳蘆竹文 梅甁 및 竹札 )

Heritage Search Detail
Classification Treasure
Name of Cultural Properties Celadon Prunus Vase with Inlaid Chrysanthemum, Peony, Willow, Heron, and Bamboo Design and Bamboo Strip
Quantity 2 vases
Designated Date 2012.12.27
Age Late 12th Century-Early 13th Century
Address 136-0, Namnong-ro, Mokpo, Jeollanam-do

This celadon vase with a bamboo strip was discovered in the remains of a Goryeo boat referred to as Mado Boat 2 because it was excavated at an underwater site around Mado Island of Geunheung-myeon, Taean-gun, Chungcheongnam-do. Both relics are assumed to have been made some time between the late 12th and early 13th century. The vase features a body divided into six sections by incised lines like the shape of a melon. There are supplementary motifs of fret and lotus band on the upper and lower parts, while the central design features several different motifs made by combining willow and bird, bamboo, reed and bird, and peony or chrysanthemum with bird and moth, all of which are set within a “water chestnut window”. The melon-shaped body and the multiple motif design are typical of the changes made to Goryeo celadon works after the 13th century. The surface contains areas of uneven glazing dotted with pinholes and signs of clogging. The melon-shaped body, mixed designs, various inlay techniques and different-colored glaze have led some experts to assume that this vase was made in a different period from the vase decorated with incised designs. Others, however, consider it as evidence that there was a great diversity of shapes and designs among Goryeo celadon wares produced around the 13th century. The vase was discovered with a bamboo slip that contains the name of the vase, Jun (樽), and information that the vase was used to contain sesame oil.