국립중앙박물관 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF KOREA

Moon Jar

The name 'Moon Jar' comes from their large, round shape, reminiscent of a full moon. These jars were particularly popular in the 17th to 18th centuries. Due to their size, it was challenging to craft a Moon Jar in one piece on a pottery wheel. Instead, the upper and lower halves were made separately and then joined to form the complete jar.

Occasionally, the two halves would fit together perfectly, but often they did not, resulting in variations in roundness. This led to a unique artistic expression, celebrating the 'carefree beauty of an irregular circle' rather than perfect symmetry.

Coated with a white glaze, the surface of a Moon Jar emits a subtle radiance. Its clean, smooth curves evoke a sense of tranquility, much like gazing at a full moon. These Moon Jars are distinctly Joseon creations, unlike any found in China or Japan.

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