Duo of small white baekja porcelain vases by Sang-in Kim

Duo of Korean baekja white porcelain vases, heirs to the aesthetic of the Joseon dynasty, where white, sober forms, and restraint occupy an essential place. Here, Sang-in Kim plays on the contrast between a perfectly smooth upper section and the body of the vase, punctuated by a multitude of fine vertical facets. Light highlights the relief and gives the slightly bluish white of the porcelain a particular depth. 2 vases to be positioned together to hold a few flowers or branches, or placed alone as decorative objects.

The Ceramist
Born in 1976 in Daejeon, Sang-in Kim is a Korean ceramist specializing in white porcelain. After higher studies in design at Chung-Ang University, he trained for twelve years under ceramist Gee-jo Lee before becoming independent in 2010 and setting up his own kiln in Anseong in 2012. Through his studio, Haeinyo, he develops a contemporary interpretation of the baekja of the Joseon period, adopting its sobriety and balance to create objects intended for daily life. His work was notably presented at Maison & Objet in 2014 and received the Presidential Award at the Korea Crafts Exhibition in 2016.

Technique and Decor
Baekja, literally "white porcelain," became one of the major expressions of Korean ceramics during the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910). On these vases, the faceting work tightens into a succession of very fine vertical lines that model the entire lower part of the piece. Their repetition creates a regular relief that light makes appear with varying intensity, while the smooth shoulder forms a clean transition toward the small central opening. The translucent glaze features the slight blue-green tint characteristic of Haeinyo porcelains. Each vase is signed at its base in cobalt blue.

Place of manufacture
South Korea (Anseong)

Dimensions
Each vase: Diameter 6.5 cm - Height 6.5 cm

Weight
114 g x 2

Materials
Baekja white porcelain

Period
Contemporary

Care instructions
After use, empty the water and let air dry. Avoid thermal shock and abrasive products. Wipe with a soft cloth. Not dishwasher, oven, or microwave safe.