The Cleveland Museum of Art

Collection Online as of July 15, 2026

A celadon, a gray-green glaze, dish features a rim with ten rounded lobes, creating a flower shape. In the center is a molded image of a flying phoenix with spread wings and a long, curving tail. Three small, raised bumps appear on the interior surface.

Celadon Dish with Molded Phoenix Design in the Shape of a Flower

1200s

Korea, Goryeo dynasty

(918–1392)
Celadon
height: 2.7 cm (1 1/16 in.); Diameter of rim: 8.3 cm (3 1/4 in.); Diameter of base: 5.5 cm (2 3/16 in.)
Gift of Mr. Sang-goo Kong in Honor of Dr. William Griswold 2025.178
Location: Not on view

Did You Know?

The phoenix motif at the center of this dish symbolizes cosmic harmony and prosperity in traditional East Asian cultural and artistic expression.

Description

Celadon wares intended for everyday use—such as this dish—were among the most common burial objects placed in tombs during the Goryeo period (918–1392). Furnishing tombs with elaborate assemblages of objects was believed to honor the deceased and provide comfort in the afterlife. This dish, featuring the image of a flying phoenix, was likely a cherished possession that accompanied its owner to their final resting place.
  • Private Collection
    ?–2025
    My Art Auction, Seoul, South Korea, given to the Cleveland Museum of Art
    2025–
    The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH
  • {{cite web|title=Celadon Dish with Molded Phoenix Design in the Shape of a Flower|url=false|author=|year=1200s|access-date=15 July 2026|publisher=Cleveland Museum of Art}}

Source URL:

https://www.clevelandart.org/art/2025.178