Koryo Maebyeong-style vase

Koryo Dynasty (AD 918-1393)
Earthenware, natural ash glaze
Korea
H:29.5cm x W:16cm

This tall prunus vase (maebyeong) is characterized by a wide shoulder, a slender waist and saucer-like mouth. The exterior of the vase is covered in a rich dark black with a wash of vibrant grey speckled across the entire body. This beautiful wash of grey came about as a unique imperfection caused by the high temperatures used when casting the object. Unique ash glaze patterns such as this in Koryo pottery became a highly sought-after aesthetic across East Asia for their imperfect beauty.