Goryeo Celadon Inlaid Tortoise‑Head Chrysanthemum‑Lobed Scholar’s Water Pot, Goryeo Dynasty

拍品描述

Dimensions: 12 cm (4.72 inches) in diameter, 6 cm (2.36 inches) in height, a 12th-14th century Goryeo celadon scholar's ewer. Condition and Provenance: This ewer is in excellent condition, without cracks, damage, or signs of repair. The celadon glaze exhibits fine, natural crackles characteristic of its age. The black and white slip inlay on the exterior and the scrollwork inlay on the interior are clearly visible. The turtle head carving is well-preserved, and the spout is unobstructed. The foot retains the natural clay crust formed during firing. There is no modern polishing, reworking, or artificial aging treatment. This ewer was originally owned by a private collector in Japan and is now in the collection of a private East Asian antiquities ceramics institution in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. Hong Kong is a major global trading center for Goryeo antique ceramics. Description: This ingeniously conceived and meticulously crafted scholar's ewer is a prime example of Goryeo-era workshop craftsmanship, showcasing the mature slip inlay technique and exquisite biomimetic aesthetics of Goryeo celadon. The spout is shaped like a wavy chrysanthemum petal, and the body is rounded with distinct contours and vertical grooves. A three-dimensional tortoise head protrudes from one side of the body, serving as the spout; the tortoise's facial features are lifelike, and a small hole allows water to flow through. The outer wall of the body is densely covered with fine floral patterns inlaid in black and white clay, the lines flowing and precise. The inner wall of the base is decorated with a circular floral motif in the center, surrounded by scrolling ruyi-shaped patterns, creating a rich and elegant scene. The entire vessel is covered in a soft, jade-colored celadon glaze, with a bright sheen and fine crackles formed naturally over hundreds of years. The base is flat with a short foot ring, bearing traces of clay residue from kiln supports—a standard firing technique of the Goryeo period. In ancient Korean culture, the tortoise symbolizes longevity and good fortune. A scholar's water vessel combining a tortoise sculpture with exquisite celadon inlay craftsmanship is extremely rare. This vessel was likely used to hold water for an inkstone, an essential tool for medieval scholars. This piece boasts a unique shape, lifelike animal sculptures, complete inlaid decorations both inside and out, and a rustic, lustrous glaze. It is a precious artifact for studying Goryeo literati artifacts and inlaid ceramic techniques. It not only possesses excellent decorative qualities, making it suitable for display in a study, but also holds significant historical, archaeological, and collectible value.

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