Celadon
Celadon is used to describe Korean pottery. It literally means green, and though not all Korean pottery is green, it is the most popular kind.
The Koryo Dynasty, which lasted from 918 to 1392 AD, had a strong Buddhist influence which shaped many of its cultural achievements. Buddhist temples flourished during the Koryo period, and with them grew a need for fine vessels to be used during the many ritual ceremonies. Many Korean artists learned pottery techniques from the Chinese. The Korean artists put their own stamp on the pottery by creating celadon using inlay and copper glazing in a unique way. The exceptional quality and beauty of the works they created surpassed that of other countries and came to be revered by even the Chinese for its elegant, yet simple beauty. The Koryo Royal Court also used some of the best examples of celadon pottery in their palaces for daily use and as fine art.
Artists today still create celadon pottery and many people bring back celadon vases, bowls, platters, etc. from South Korea.
7 comments:
Oh man, my shopping list is getting longer and longer!
I love this stuff. You can get "generic" stuff at all the big markets in every shape and size, but we splurged and got one "authentic" vase (hand painted and numbered by a trained artisan)as a nice keepsake. We keep it up high and always get comments on it. It truly is beautiful stuff!
We also got some tiny pieces for Seth for one of his family day gifts.
What great information! I'm going to go back and read all of your Korea lessons. Thanks!
I need a bigger suitcase. ;-)
Joanna.....do you know that when I check our Lifelink group, I just about have a heart attack EVERY SINGLE TIME because I'm SO hoping to hear your good news?! Come on referrals! :-)
I sure hope that I get to bring some beautiful pottery home from S. Korea!
Thanks again for posting your lessons. They are so much fun to read and learn from.
I love your lessons. We bought a beautiful green vase at Insadong. It's a great reminder of our trip!
I wish I had bought MORE while we were there! Our favorite place for looking (and buying) was in Insadong. We bought a couple of pieces for us, and one for T's grandma (the one H. is named for)...but it's so beautiful that I just want more. Take a HUGE suitcase! Mwahaha! ;)
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