An artwork on Galleree from Cleveland Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Water Ewer for Rituals (Kundika) with Incised Parrot Design1100s
This distinctively shaped celadon vessel is a <em>kundika. </em>With a spout on one side, this type of vessel is often used in Buddhist purification rituals. Unlike most existing examples that have an image of a willow tree, this work has a rare flying phoenix design incised on its surface. During the Goryeo period (918-1392), about 260 kilns operated in mainly Jeolla and Chungcheong provinces, meeting a soaring demand for high-end products like this example.
Unlike most existing examples that have an image of a willow tree or lotus pond, this ewer bears an image of flying parrots delicately incised on its surface.
stoneware with celadon glaze, incised and carved decoration
Overall: 35.3 cm (13 7/8 in.)
Gift of John L. Severance
In the gentle embrace of history, there rests a remarkable celadon vessel, known as a kundika. Its shape is distinctive, an elegant silhouette that invites the eye and whispers tales of ancient rituals. This vessel, with its graceful spout extending like a welcoming hand, cradles a purpose steeped in serenity—used in the sacred Buddhist purification ceremonies, where the act of cleansing transcends the physical to touch the soul.
But what sets this kundika apart from others of its kind is the rare ornamentation that dances upon its surface. Unlike the more common images of willow trees, this piece displays a striking design of a flying phoenix, wings outstretched in an eternal flight. The phoenix, a symbol of rebirth and renewal, seems to spread warmth across the cool celadon glaze, infusing the vessel with a sense of hope and transformation.
Imagine a time, during the Goryeo period, sprawling from 918 to 1392, where over 260 kilns buzzed with activity in the tranquil landscapes of Jeolla and Chungcheong provinces. Each artisan, with hands meticulously crafting pieces like this kundika, responded to a burgeoning demand for exquisite works of art. It is here in this setting where the vessel was born—the synthesis of nature's beauty and human creativity, fashioned to fulfill not just a practical need, but to elevate the spirit, enriching the sacred moments for those who would gather to purify their hearts and minds.
This kundika, with its flying phoenix gliding through the ages, invites us to ponder the profound connection between artistry and spirituality—each vessel a vessel of stories, waiting to be shared.
About the artist
Creating transformative experiences through art “for the benefit of all the people forever.”The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for the quality and breadth of its collection, which includes more than 66,500 artworks and spans 6,000 years of achievement in the arts. The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from the museum's Open Access data under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.Address: 11150 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, USA 44106
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