Mid 19th Century Joseon Porcelain Water-Dropper With Underglaze Flower Motif

During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897), water-droppers, known as “yeonjeok”, played an important role in the daily lives of scholars and artists. These small ceramic vessels were designed to hold water and regulate its flow when making ink. They were also seen as a symbol of refined taste and scholarly pursuits. Water droppers were intricately crafted, often featuring elegant designs and motifs. Today, these artifacts serve as a testament to the artistic and cultural heritage of the Joseon Dynasty.

This particular example from the late Joseon period is decorated with an underglaze brushed cobalt and cinnabar flower design. The body of the vessel is smooth with a warm white hue that is characteristic of Korean white-wares of this period. A small triangular opening precisely controls the rate at which water drops, making it a fine accoutrement to any painter’s or scholar’s desk.