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Covered jar

Photo: National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage, Republic of Korea

Covered jar

late 19th century

The Chinese character painted in underglaze blue on the lid of this small jar means "good fortune" or "blessings." Korean objects, as well as their Chinese and Japanese counterparts, often employ Chinese characters as the sole decorative motif. A single character, such as (happiness, blessings) or (longevity), confers an auspicious meaning on an otherwise functional object.



Porcelain with blue glaze
3 1/2 x 2 7/8 in. (8.9 x 7.3cm)
Gift of Herbert B. Hall
92.15
Photo: National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage, Republic of Korea
location
Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, "Explore Korea: A Visit to Grandfather's House", October 23, 1999 - October 31, 2002
Published References"Korean Art Collection in the Seattle Art Museum, U.S.A." Tajaon Kwangyaoksi: Kungnip Munhwaja Yaonguso, 2015, pg. 99.

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