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Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392)

uring the demise of the Unified Silla dynasty in the tenth century, the Korean penin-
Dsula was again divided among various warring factions. However it was soon reunited
under a new ruler, Wang Geon (877–943). He would name the new state Goryeo, after
the former Goguryeo kingdom (northern most of the original Three Kingdoms). Today’s
English name of “Korea” originates from the “Goryeo” name.

The societal “bone-rank” system of Silla was replaced by a “clan-seat” system that linked
aristocratic families to their own localities, or place of origin. China was also a prime in-
fluence for shaping many aspects of Goryeo culture. Styles of art, poetry, and government
organization all were adopted from China. Studying and passing civil service exams, which
emphasized knowledge of Chinese writings and Confucian ideology, became important
among the ruling class.

Buddhism was the official state religion of the Goryeo dynasty. The complete Buddhist
canon was carved into wooden printing blocks in 1087. The Mongolian Empire began
repeated invasions in Korea during the thirteenth century and the woodblocks were de-
stroyed during invasions in 1232. They were completed again in 1251 and remain stored in
South Korea today in the Haeinsa Temple. The 81,137 woodblocks known as the Tripitaka
Koreana (Kr: Palman Daejanggyeong or Goryeo Daejanggyeong) are identified as the 32nd
national treasure of Korea. The world’s first cast-metal moveable type was also produced
during this time. The Mongolian Empire would maintain an indirect control of Korea
from 1270 to 1356.

The Goryeo dynasty is highlighted artistically by elegant celadon ceramics. Buddhist
monasteries, along with the royal household, were a major patron of high quality ceramics,
and religious goods were often made from the green-glazed stoneware (cat. 25). Goryeo
celadon copied, and later evolved from, Chinese models from various kilns. Examples of
the highest quality feature a brilliant greenish-blue-colored glaze. In Korea, this color was
known as bisaek (Ch: feise), or “kingfisher color.” Celadon ceramics often include inlaid
decoration which entails carving designs into the unfired clay and filling the depressions
with black or white slip to create the design. The celadon cup (cat. 19) pictured on the front
and back cover of this book is an example of this and features a popular decorative motif
of the period.

The Goryeo ceramics in this catalogue include brownish-green glazed wares (“celadon”
of ordinary quality) and celadon bowls, dishes, and bottles. These vessels are decorated
with press-molded, stamped, or inlaid designs, or are painted with iron pigment. Others
are left undecorated. Examples of unglazed stoneware used for everyday purposes are also
featured here.

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