Antique Korean Celadon Tea Bowl Early Joseon Dynasty Sunakodai Kintsugi Box

 

■ Description A. Introduction This is a serene antique Korean Celadon Tea Bowl (Korai Chawan), originating from the transition period between the late Goryeo Dynasty and the Early Joseon Dynasty (approx. 14th-15th Century). While it carries the elegant form of Goryeo celadon, the distinctive "Sand Foot" indicates it belongs to the early Joseon era. It comes with a wooden storage box (Tomobako).

B. Features & Cultural Context


	

	
Era (Early Joseon): Although it retains the glaze and style of Goryeo Celadon, the construction of the foot identifies it as a piece from the Early Joseon period. It captures the historical shift from aristocratic refinement to the humble simplicity admired in the Tea Ceremony.
	
	

	
"Suna-kodai" (Sand Foot): The foot ring features the characteristic "Suna-kodai", where silica sand was used as a separator during firing to prevent the bowl from sticking to the kiln floor. This rough, sandy texture is a highly prized "kardmark" of authenticity for collectors of this era.
	
	

	
Glaze & Kintsugi: The bowl features a mesmerizing network of crackles (Kannyu) in the celadon glaze. It has been cherished and preserved with Gold Lacquer Repairs (Kintsugi) on the rim, adding to its Wabi-sabi beauty and history.
	
	

	
The Box: Included is a vintage wooden box. The lid is inscribed simply with the ink character for "Tea Bowl" (Chawan), reflecting a modest and traditional presentation.
	


C. Usage & Decor Ideas


	

	
Tea Ceremony: A perfect bowl for Omotesenke or Urasenke style tea practice, offering a connection to centuries of tea history.
	
	

	
Meditation Object: The intricate crackles and the "landscape" of the glaze provide a calming focus for meditation.
	


D. Size & Weight


	

	
Bowl Diameter: 14.0 cm / 5.51 in
	
	

	
Bowl Height: 5.7 cm / 2.24 in
	
	

	
Bowl Weight: 214 g / 0.47 lbs
	
	

	
Total Weight (with Box): 358 g / 0.79 lbs
	
	

	
Box Dimensions: 15.5 cm x 15.5 cm x 11 cm
	


E. Condition Condition: Antique / Kintsugi Repair This item is centuries old.


	

	
Repairs: There are traditional Kintsugi (Gold/Lacquer) repairs on the rim. These are considered honorable scars that enhance the bowl's value in the tea aesthetic.
	
	

	
Foot: The sandy texture on the foot is an intentional feature of its creation (Suna-kodai), not damage.
	
	

	
General: Please expect signs of age, crackles, and wear consistent with an excavated or heirloom piece.
	


F. Conclusion This tea bowl is a tangible piece of Korean history, bridging the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties. The sandy foot and the golden repairs tell a story of survival and appreciation. It is a must-have for serious collectors of Korai Chawan.