Korean Joseon Dynasty Style Sometsuke Small Jar Vase Pottery

This pot is presumed to be “Joseon Dynasty sometsuke” or “folk craft style ceramics” inspired by that style, due to its distinctive design. Based on the visible features in the photos, there are two possibilities for its origin. It could be a replica from the late Joseon Dynasty (18th-19th century) or from that period itself. If it is a genuine antique, it reflects the style of the late Joseon Dynasty from the Korean Peninsula. The sometsuke texture, with botanical patterns drawn in oxidized cobalt faintly appearing on thick white porcelain, is characteristic of this period. The fine cracks (kannyu) throughout show the passage of time, giving it a “matured” texture from long use. Alternatively, it could be a work from the Mingei (folk craft) movement during the Showa period (mid-20th century). There is a high possibility that it was made during the Mingei movement (around the 1930s-1950s) in Japan, influenced by the beauty of Joseon pottery. The shape and size, a “small pot (autumn grass pattern pot)” that fits in the palm of one's hand, was highly favored by Japanese tea masters and folk craft enthusiasts. The base (kodai) construction, as seen in the last photo, shows a relatively neat display and shaping of the clay, suggesting it might be a well-made item carefully crafted by a Japanese artist or kiln to reproduce the taste of “antiquity.” There is a spot on part of the body, possibly a “glaze peel” or “exposed clay,” which appears to be from the time of manufacture (see second photo). This is not a crack or chip caused by later impact, but rather part of the rustic texture and scenery of this vessel. The surface is rough, but it is not in a condition where it will crumble. This item was found in a home warehouse.

Details

Condition	Good
Origin	South Korea (Republic of Korea)
Material	Ceramic
Era	Unknown