Incense Burner with Lotus Petal Design in Relief

1100s

Incense Burner with Lotus Petal Design in Relief, 1100s. Korea, Goryeo period (918-1392). Stoneware; overall: 12.8 cm (5 1/16 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Director's Contingent Fund 1918.493 Celadons wares used for everyday such as this incense burner were among the most common burial objects in tombs during the Goryeo period (918–1392). Furnishing tombs with an elaborate assemblage of objects was believed to honor and comfort the newly dead. Generally, Goryeo tombs were left untouched until the late 19th century. During the colonial period (1910–45), however, Japanese archaeologists competitively excavated the tombs located in Kaeseong, the former capital of the Goryeo period, and these wares soon became available for Japanese and Western collectors. This incense burner may have been produced at one of the state-run kilns located in Kangjin, southern Jeolla province. The exterior decor that resembles an opening lotus flower was shaped in a carved wooden mold. Then the potter touched it up with incised details.