A Korean Porcelain Moon Jar

Joseon dynasty (1392–1910), 19th century, porcelain with a clear glaze resulting in a lustrous and translucent appearance, with a short full rim at top and set on a circular upright foot with recessed base to bottom.

The defining feature of moon jars is their round, full shape and luminescent white glaze that resembles the face of the moon. This enduring symbol of harmony and balance in Korean culture also exemplifies minimalist design. The absence of decoration allows the shape and color of the jar to be the primary focus. Intended as functional objects for storage, they embody the ideal of simple elegance.




10 1/8 in., 12 in. daimeter

Collection of Mr. John Sylvester, Jr.

Purchased in Pusan, Korea in 1974. The underside of the jar has a paper label from the Cultural Heritage Administration in Korea.


Glaze and firing anomalies as made; firing hairline to underside; otherwise good estate condition.