Untitled

Unlike earlier generations of 20th-century Korean studio potters, who perfected close imitations of traditional ceramic pieces, Kim Yi-kyung has studied the materials, colors, and shapes of the famed porcelains of the Joseon dynasty (1392–1910) and transformed her historic exemplars into sculptural forms of great personal conviction and contemporary vigor. The squared shape of this vessel, its notched handles, and high, raised foot evoke the white wares used in early Joseon period Neo-Confucian rituals. However, Kim (in traditional Korean usage, family name precedes personal name) created this piece on a much larger scale, thereby denying any possible traditional ceremonial use. In addition, the strong contours and boldly faceted cut surfaces of this vessel mark the unique style of her mature work. For this piece, she intentionally chose a rougher than usual porcelain clay filled with impurities, one that transforms into a speckled dullish gray when fired in a kiln. Kim’s innovation of brushing and spattering white slip (liquid clay) on the surfaces of the pot before applying a clear glaze and firing enlivens the final color.