Oil Bottle with Peony Motif
Goryeo dynasty (918–1392), 12th-13th century
Medium
Stoneware with celadon glaze
Dimensions
7.4 × 8.9 cm (2 15/16 × 3 9/16 in.); Diam.: 8.9 cm (3 9/16 in.)
Classification
vessel
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
193067
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Cosmetic containers in celadon were widely used by ladies of the court and aristocratic households during the Goryeo dynasty (918–1392). Often beautifully adorned with floral motifs, these containers held face powder, blush, hair oil, or fragrance, and became prized possessions among elite women. This particular example features intricately carved peonies, a symbol of wealth and beauty. Compared to later oil bottles, which tend to have a flatter body, this bottle displays a more bulbous shape.
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...