Floral-shaped Cup Stand

1100s-1200s

Floral-shaped Cup Stand, 1100s-1200s. Korea, Goryeo period (918-1392). Celadon; diameter of rim: 13.9 cm (5 1/2 in.); overall: 5.6 cm (2 3/16 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of John L. Severance 1918.430 As early as the seventh century, the practice of drinking tea became an important part of elite culture in Korea. In enjoying teas, elites commissioned a variety of types of utensils and vessels including this delicate-looking cup stand, not only to make their tea-drinking experience more exciting, but also to show their refined taste. According to a historical record, the cultivation of tea in Korea was initiated with green tea plant seeds from China by royal order in 828.