This jar with a pedestal foot is from the Korean Old Silla dynasty, dating back to the late 400s-500s AD. The jar is made of high-fired stoneware, and features cut-out designs on the pedestal bottom. The jar has traces of naturally-formed glaze, made by ashes that settled and fused on the jar in the kiln. These designs showcase the skill and artistry of the potter.
The jar has special historical significance, as it reflects the craftsmanship and culture of the Kaya Federation (1st – 6th century AD), an ancient tribal league of walled city-states in southeastern Korea. The league coexisted along with the Three Kingdoms – Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla, meaning that the history of Kaya is closely intertwined with its more powerful neighbors, particularly Silla and Baekje. The relationship between these states was often marked by alliances and conflicts. During the 5th and 6th centuries, Silla, in its bid to unify the Korean Peninsula, began to exert more influence and power over the Kaya states. This culminated in the gradual absorption of the Kaya states into the expanding Silla kingdom by the mid-6th century. This unification played a significant role in shaping the history of Korea, contributing to the cultural and political development of the region, including the distinctive ceramic technology as shown in the zigzag cut outs, smooth lines, and rounded shape in this jar.
The purpose of the openings in the pedestal foot remains a mystery, adding an intriguing aspect to the jar. They might have served a functional role, such as heating the contents of the vessel, or they could have been purely decorative. Similar artifacts display rectangular or triangular openings arranged in single or multiple rows, with holes aligned vertically or staggered as seen here.
Image Credit: National Museum of Korea
Silla pottery encompasses ceramics crafted and distributed in the ancient Silla Kingdom on the Korean Peninsula, specifically referring to pottery produced between the early Three Kingdoms period (began ca. 300 AD) and the Unified Silla period (ended 935 AD). The fundamental types of Silla pottery included long-necked jars and mounted dishes, later expanding to include dishes, cups, vessel stands, and jars. Predominantly discovered in tombs, Silla pottery is believed to have served as ritual vessels or burial items for the deceased, reflecting the ancient belief in continuity beyond death. In contrast to China's early development of porcelain, the Silla Kingdom forged a unique tradition of crafting thin, light, and naturally ash-glazed earthenware. Regarded as the pinnacle of Korean earthenware production, Silla pottery showcases distinctive characteristics that set it apart in the realm of ancient ceramics.
Silla: The Golden Kingdom of Korea- Google Arts and Culture
In addition to the pottery, another significant aspect of the Silla Kingdom was their gold craft. This Google Arts & Culture page introduces an interesting background of the Silla Kingdom and the gold culture.
Image Credit: VisitKorea
Gyeongju and the Silk Roads- UNESCO
Gyeongju, the ancient capital of Silla for over 1,000 years, played a pivotal role in Silk Roads cultural exchanges. From the 7th century, it became a bustling trade center, attracting merchants from China, the Arabian Peninsula, and Japan. Buddhism introduced from Central Asia in the 5th century marked the beginning of Silk Roads influences on Silla. After Silla's unification in 668 AD, Gyeongju sought to attract foreign merchants, leading to the arrival of Arab traders with luxury goods like peacock tails and gems. Persian exports to China reached Silla, enhancing local artisans' skills. Direct trade with Central Asia is evident in archaeological findings, including glassware and artistic techniques like filigree from Egypt and 'cloisonne' from the Byzantine church. Gyeongju's strategic location allowed it to gradually assimilate diverse Silk Roads influences, contributing to the development of a harmonized Korean culture.
