Korean Ceramic White Porcelain Water Dropper Joseon Dynasty

A small Korean water dropper in rectangular form with beveled edges, circa early 19th century of the Joseon Dynasty. The milky white porcelain piece was molded in a sensible form with an elongated curvy sprout extended on one end and the refill hole in the center of the body. The surface features an underglaze blue painting of a cluster of bamboo branches with leaves. The minimalistic decoration was done with just a few effective strokes but managed to convey the spirit of the plant. The base was covered in the white glaze except the foot ring. As a scholar item found in the study, the austere piece embodies the humbleness of the Confucianism ideology of the contemporary Joseon society.
Water dropper like this is an important component of scholar's desk items. It was used to add drops of water to the ink stone for grinding the ink before any handwriting could be performed. In Joseon dynasty, Confucianism dominates the ideology of the society and determined the morals and values of the men. Scholarly pursuits were greatly encouraged. This trend was reflected in the ceramic art as well. Humble and earthy ware with rustic yet refined decoration was much preferred.
For another white porcelain water dropper with bamboo motif, see item 999.41.9 in the collection of Royal Ontario Museum.