Moon Jar
Joseon dynasty (1392–1897), late 17th– mid-18th century
Medium
Porcelain with glaze
Dimensions
33 × 32.5 cm (13 × 12 13/16 in.); Diam.: 32.5 cm (12 13/16 in.)
Classification
porcelain
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
158472
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This large, milky white jar, made during Korea’s Joseon dynasty, is called a moon jar because of its distinctive shape and color. In order to build the jar’s large round shape, Joseon potters joined two hemispherical halves in the center. The joint is almost visible under the smooth white glaze but subtly flattens out between the halves. This moon jar, like many others, has mysterious spots—possibly residue from liquid the jar once contained or the result of a crystal growth from the slow coolin...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...