Very Large Korean Silla Dynasty Grayware Pottery Jar

East Asia, Korea, Silla Kingdom, ca. 8th to 9th century CE. A large very fine example of a high-fired grey stoneware vase. Thin foot flaring to wide shoulders, slightly flaring neck and broad flat rim. Neck and shoulder adorned with scrolling motifs. Size: 10" W x 13" H (25.4 cm x 33 cm).

Aside from Chinese stoneware, Korean stoneware from this time period is the oldest known high-fired ware in the world - to make it, Korean artisans had to generate kiln temperatures greater than 1000 C! The characteristic grey color of this vessel and others like it is caused by the reduction of oxygen in the kiln's inner chamber. Vessels like this one have been found in high status tombs, containing offerings. Indeed, some fascinating offerings have been excavated from Silla period tombs - like soybean paste, red pepper paste, kimchi, and fermented fish sauce. This one probably held a liquid of some sort - perhaps wine.

Provenance: ex Ashland University Museum, Ashland, Ohio, USA

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#164844
Condition Report: Minor chips at base else intact and excellent.