Cleveland Museum of Art

Floral-shaped Bowl

Date

1100s

Medium

Ceramic, glazed

Culture

Korea, Goryeo dynasty (918–1392)

Department

Korean Art

Institution

Cleveland Museum of Art

Celadons, spoons, seals, and bronze mirrors were 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. This elegant floral-shaped cup was probably one of those grave goods excavated during the Japanese colonial period (1910-1945). Elites of the Goryeo period are known for their love of drinking tea and wine. This type of delicate-looking cup not only made their drinking experience more enjoyable, but also showed their refined taste.

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