Art Institute of Chicago

Oil Bottle with Peony Motif

Korea

Date

Goryeo dynasty (918–1392), 12th-13th century

Medium

Stoneware with celadon glaze

Culture

Korea

Department

Arts of Asia

Institution

Art Institute of Chicago

Cosmetic containers in celadon were widely used by ladies of the court and aristocratic households during the Goryeo dynasty (918–1392). Often beautifully adorned with floral motifs, these containers held face powder, blush, hair oil, or fragrance, and became prized possessions among elite women. This particular example features intricately carved peonies, a symbol of wealth and beauty. Compared to later oil bottles, which tend to have a flatter body, this bottle displays a more bulbous shape.

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