Artwork Page for Vase in the Form of a Melon

Details / Information for Vase in the Form of a Melon

Vase in the Form of a Melon

청자 참외모양 병 [靑磁瓜形甁]

1100s

Korea, Goryeo dynasty

(918–1392)
Medium
celadon
Measurements
Overall: 25.2 cm (9 15/16 in.)
Credit Line
The Elisabeth Severance Prentiss Collection 1944.164
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
236 Korean
Print
?

Did You Know?

The shape of this bottle resembles is a type of yellow muskmelon cultivated mainly in East Asia.

Description

As early as the seventh century, the practice of drinking tea and wine became an important part of elite culture in Korea. Elites of the Goryeo period commissioned a variety of types of utensils and vessels including this elegant bottle, not only to make their drinking experience more exciting, but also to show their appreciation of nature. During the Goryeo period (918-1392), kilns operated in Jeolla and Chungcheong provinces, meeting a soaring demand for high-quality tableware.
A sage-green stoneware vessel takes a melon-like form, its bulbous body segmented by deep vertical grooves that accentuate shadows. Above, a tall neck features a ring of incised leaf shapes, flaring into a wide rim marked by a small golden repair. Light catches the smooth, lustrous glaze across its rounded sections. The vessel tapers toward a short, fluted base, blending rhythmic organic textures with a refined, balanced silhouette.

Vase in the Form of a Melon

1100s

Korea, Goryeo dynasty (918–1392)

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork