• Korean Journal of Heritage: History & Science
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• v.52 no.4
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• pp.154-169
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• 2019

This study attempts to shed light on the nature and purpose of the small melon-shaped celadon ewer that was found in the Sinan shipwreck, focusing on the fact that it has the shape of a ewer, yet could not really have served as a tea or liquor utensil given its small size and unusual shape. We analyzed the shape-related characteristics of other melon-shaped celadon ewers as well as this one; checked the use of similar items unearthed in China and Japan; examined the relevant literature, materials, and paintings; and arrived at the following conclusion. First, it was found that the small melon-shaped celadon ewer was one of a type that was first made in the Southern Song Period in China and continued to be made until the Yuan Period. The artifact displays some differences from many similar relics found in the same shipwreck, particularly its spout, lid, and handle. Second, research on the tea ceremonies and types of liquors prevalent during the Song and Yuan Periods of China, as well as the appearance of this ewer, suggest that it was unsuitable for use as a liquor utensil. Third, we looked at the relevant literature records, paintings, and relics unearthed in China and Japan in an attempt to determine its actual purpose. It is well known that the literati had a deep affection for stationery items, particularly water droppers, which were made in a variety of shapes during the Song Period of China and thereafter. According to literature dating from the Song and Ming Periods, it appears that melon- or ewer-shaped water droppers were used. Certain paintings from the Ming Period depict a small ewer, along with a water dropper, as a stationery item. Looking at paintings dating from medieval Japan, small ewer-shaped objects do not figure among the tea and liquor utensils depicted, whereas kettles with handles and hot water bottles do. Objects known as yeonjeok (a water dropper) were included among the items said to have been made in pottery kilns during medieval Japan. However, a book on flower arrangement of Japan dating from the fifteenth century shows a small ewer, with flowers in it, among the stationery items placed on a desk. Based on this detail, it is concluded that the small melon-shaped celadon ewer from the Sinan shipwreck might have been used as a flower bottle as well as a stationery item.