청자 음각 당초 무늬 기름병 고려|青磁陰刻唐草文油甁 高麗|Oil bottle decorated with floral scrolls and lotus petals

Art Historical Context

This delicate oil bottle, crafted in the 12th century during Korea's Goryeo dynasty (918–1392), exemplifies the era's mastery of celadon ceramics. Made from stoneware, its surface features finely incised floral scrolls and lotus petals, carved into the clay before being coated with a signature jade-green celadon glaze. Standing just 2⅛ inches tall and 4 inches wide, its petite scale suggests it held oils for lamps, cosmetics, or rituals, blending everyday utility with artistic elegance. Goryeo celadon, often likened to imperial jade for its subtle luster and fine crackle texture, marked a high point in Korean pottery innovation. The incising technique—known as *inlaid* or *engraved* design—allowed artisans to create intricate motifs that emerged vividly after high-temperature firing. These floral patterns, evoking boundless growth and purity (with lotus symbolizing enlightenment), reflect the dynasty's deep Buddhist influences and sophisticated aesthetic refinement. Today, this rare survivor graces the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection, a 1919 gift from R. H. Macy and Co. It invites us to appreciate Goryeo's global influence, as such wares were prized exports to China and beyond, embodying Korea's ceramic golden age.