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Korean Bronze Bottle Goryeo Dynasty

Offered by: Tishu

Description
An antique Korean bronze bottle of bulbous pear form with a long neck and flared open mouth from Goryeo Dynasty (918 AD-1392 AD) circa 12-13th century It was thought that the type of bottle with such harmonious form and proportion was inspired from the Chinese porcelain prototype "Yu Hu Chun" (Jade Jar Spring) and were commonly found among mortuary objects in the tomb of Goryeo period. Theory is divided in terms of their use. One school thinks they were exclusively used in ritual setting such as flower offering vases in Buddhist temple. The other school thinks they also serve some secular purposes. The metal analysis of these types of bottles shows significant content of lead, which suggests that they were probably not used for culinary functions.
The bottle is striking in its minimalistic elegant form. Its surface is most unadorned othering than two decorative circumventing lines under its neck and above the base. The base was cast separately, and the joins shows expected corrosion consistent with the making process. What is really visually striking is the deep green-bluish encrusted patina that has developed due to the prolonged exposure to earth elements in the ground. That renders the piece a very attractive and archaistic appeal.
For reference of analysis of these bottles, see page 108 of "Korean Art and Design" by Beth McKillop.
For a similar bottle in the collection of Brooklyn Musuem no. 74.159.2; Portland Art Musuem no. 2016.118.1

More Information

Origin:	South Korea
Period:	Pre 18th Century
Materials:	bronze
Condition:	Good. Scatter areas of professional restoration to dings, hardly discernible. No in paint appears under UV. Wear consistent with age and use. Heavy encrusted patina covering the whole surface.
Creation Date:	12-13th century
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Asian/Oriental, Geometric, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	578765

Dimensions

H.	12 in;	Diam.	7 in;
H.	30.48 cm;	Diam.	17.78 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.