White porcelain baekja vase by Sang-in Kim

Korean white porcelain baekja vase, heir to the aesthetic of the Joseon dynasty, where white, the sobriety of 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, which is punctuated by a multitude of fine vertical facets. The light highlights their relief, giving the slightly bluish white of the porcelain a particular depth. This vase can hold a few flowers or a branch, and can also be displayed on its own as a decorative object.

The ceramicist
Born in 1976 in Daejeon, Sang-in Kim is a Korean ceramicist specializing in white porcelain. After higher studies in design at Chung-Ang University, he trained for twelve years under ceramicist Gee-jo Lee before becoming independent in 2010 and installing his own kiln in Anseong in 2012. Through his Haeinyo studio, 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 decoration
Baekja, literally "white porcelain," became one of the major expressions of Korean ceramics under the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910). On this vase, the faceting technique tightens into a succession of very fine vertical lines that shape the entire lower part of the piece. Their repetition creates a regular relief that light reveals with varying intensity, while the smooth shoulder forms a clean transition toward the small central opening. The translucent glaze has the slight blue-green tone characteristic of Haeinyo porcelains. The vase is signed on its base in cobalt blue.

Place of manufacture
South Korea (Anseong)

Dimensions
Diameter 7.5 cm - Height 9.5 cm

Weight
288 g

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 suitable for dishwasher, oven, or microwave.