Hollyhock-shaped Cup
Unknown Artist
1400s
Medium
porcelain
Dimensions
h. 3.6 cm · diameter of mouth 10.9 cm
Classification
Ceramic
Department
Korean Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Anonymous Gift
Accession Number
1969.85
About this artwork
This very rare porcelain cup is called a hollyhock cup because its rim resembles a hollyhock blossom. This type of cup was produced only in the state-owned kiln for a limited time from the late 1400s to mid-1500s. Like sunflowers, hollyhocks also open their blooms toward the sun, signifying loyalty to the king. According to Korean royal archives, hollyhock cups were used during state banquets when the king offered wine to court officials. Also, a hollyhock-shaped cup was used in tea ceremonies t...