Page 18 - Korean Buncheong Ceramics, Samsung Museum Collection (great book)

Buncheong

Unconventional Beauty

Jeon Seung-chang

The establishment of the Joseon dynasty (1392–1910) following the demise of the Goryeo regime
(918–1392) brought about many political, social, economic, and cultural changes. Like the other
arts during this initial period, ceramics embraced innovation. The two major new trends in
ceramics were the emergence of buncheong ware, on the one hand, which built upon and trans-
formed the tradition of Goryeo celadon, and porcelain on the other, a new phenomenon spurred
by the development of Ming Chinese porcelain. Although the rapid rise and overwhelming
popularity of porcelain eventually led to the decline of buncheong ware, the latter nonetheless
culminated in a uniquely vibrant art form, its exuberant decoration reflecting the dynamic atmo-
sphere of the early Joseon period.
Buncheong ware embodies both the sophisticated tastes of the Joseon court and scholarly elite
( yangban) and the wit and candor of the common people. New interpretations of historical records
and recent excavations of kiln sites have elucidated the singular qualities of buncheong. They have
also highlighted issues such as kiln structure, chronology, and operation. Compared to Goryeo
celadon or Joseon porcelain, buncheong had a relatively short period of production and smaller
output. Yet it is a distinctive genre unique among world ceramics.
This essay explores various issues related to buncheong ware, starting with a discussion of
the concept and definition of buncheong. It will then examine how buncheong came to be, as well
as its consumption, development, transformation, and decline; the relationship between buncheong
and porcelain; the characteristics of buncheong kiln sites; and the methods of production.

opposite: Figure 1.1 Detail of catalogue 6