Pottery is shaped from clay then fired in high temperature kilns. They are usually fired once on 800-900℃heat, glazed with enamel, then fired again on a higher temperature of 1,300-1,500℃ It is unique in that it produces a clear sound when tapped, and has a clear sheen.
The first documented use of clay on the Korean peninsula was during the Neolithic era. By the Age of the Three Kingdoms (B.C.57-A.D.676), earthenware use in everyday life was common on the peninsula. During the Unified Silla Kingdom (676-935), the shape of earthenware diversified and began to carry decorative patterns.
With the arrival of the Goryeo era (918-1392), earthenware culture evolved into ceramic ware culture. Created by glazing and re-firing once baked earthenware, ceramic ware was superior in its durability, ease of use, and impermeability against water. With the creation of the 'cheongja', a type of clear, pale green hued ceramic, the Goryeo era cemented its place in history as the golden era of Korean ceramics culture. Of the 'cheongja' ceramics, those made using the 'sanggam' method (intricate designs were carved into the vase, and other materials added to the forms) are especially prized for their artistry and beauty- the pinnacle of ceramic making.
Afterwards in the Joseon era (1392-1910), white ceramics called 'baekja' and 'buncheongsagi' made an appearance. Joseon era ceramics were simpler in design than its Goryeo era counterparts, and it was during this time that ceramic making techniques were transferred to Japan.
In modern times, the ceramic making tradition is continued in Icheon, Yeoju, Gwangju, Danyang, Mungyeong, Hadong, Gangjin, and Buan's ceramic villages ('dochon'). Of these, the Icheon Ceramics Village is the largest, occupied by the factories of over 80 companies. Visitors
can tour the factories and make direct purchases. Every two years, the World Ceramics Biennale is held as well. For those wishing to stay within Seoul, the Insadong street also has a diverse collection of ceramics on hand at any given time, from crude earthenware to the refined 'baekja'.
During a 1999 visit, Queen Elizabeth of England expressed her delight at the artistry of Korea's ceramics that she saw in Insadong.
Types of Ceramic Ware
1.Cheongja
The term 'cheongja' points to ceramic ware with a transparent pale green surface hue. The color was produced by adding iron to the glaze, and was an expression of jade (considered precious at the time) in ceramic form. This type of ceramic is a poetic embodiment of aristocratic culture at the time and is characterized by a pale green tint (sometimes called 'bisaek'), detailed designs, and simplicity in form. A longing for the eternal is expressed in the creation of the works, with designs incorporating cranes, clouds, ponds, and trees.
2.Baekja
'Baekja' is made by painting clear glaze over ceramic made from white clay. 'Baekja' was first created during the early Goryeo era along with 'cheongja', but only came into its own during the Joseon era. 'Baekja' most often has a pure white color, but sometimes green or milk color is added to the clay to give it a pale color. If the Goryeo 'cheongja' can be seen as the embodiment of the era's aristocratic culture and luxuries, then the 'baekja' is the embodiment of Joseon era's aristocratic scholars, who prized a noble mind and humility above all. Designs often incorporate dragons, pines, cranes, and peonies.
3.Buncheongsagi
'Buncheongsagi' has a grayish green body with painted designs or designs that were carved in after the body was covered with white earth. It lacks the refined sense of beauty of the Goryeo era 'cheongja', but is friendly and comfortable in mood. The designs usually consists of flowers and fish.
4.Onggi
Onggi is a large pot made from clay that has been fired at temperatures of 1,100-1,200℃ after glazing. Also called 'dok', it has long been used as a way to store fermented food items such as kimchi, red pepper paste, and bean paste.
from http://english.tour2korea.com
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