Wine Ewer with Incised Scroll Design

청자 음각 당초무늬 주전자 (靑磁陰刻唐草文注子)

1100s

Korea, Goryeo dynasty

(918–1392)

celadon with incised and carved design

Outer diameter: 7.2 cm (2 13/16 in.); Overall: 4.2 cm (1 5/8 in.)

Gift of John L. Severance 1928.172

Location: not on view

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Did You Know?

Termed kintsugi (literally meaning “gold joinery”) in Japanese, this method of repairing broken parts with glittering gold mixed with lacquer was extensively used for ceramic works in the Goryeo period, such as this one.

Description

Many celadon ceramics, such as these two miniature pots, have been repaired with gold lacquer. Termed kintsugi (literally meaning “gold joinery”) in Japanese, this restoration method highlights broken parts with glittering gold mixed with lacquer. Initiated in 15th-century Japan, the technique follows a popular aesthetic concept called wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfect things. Goryeo celadons were considered rare treasures among early 20th-century Japanese collectors; thus, their broken condition is brilliantly highlighted in gold lacquer, as seen here in the repaired spouts, handle, and lid.