국립중앙박물관 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF KOREA

Highlights
Celadon Incense Burner Lid
  • Nationality/Period

    Goryeo Dynasty

  • Materials

    Ceramics - Celadon

  • Category

    life in society - life in ceremony - religious ceremonies - the smoke of incense

  • Dimensions

    H. 12.0cm, (mouth) D. 12.1cm

  • Accession Number

    Deoksu 506

This incense burner lid is decorated on top with a mandarin duck. It is designed to allow smoke from the incense to flow through the body and out of the mouth. The lifelike duck sitting on a lotus seed with its mouth wide open and its head straight up appears to be calling to its partner. An ideal combination of functionality and exquisite handicraft, this masterpiece is thought to have been created in the early 12th century when celadon production reached its zenith since it showcases refined sculpting skill and the exemplary jade color of Goryeo celadon.