Goryeo ware refers to all types of
Korean pottery and porcelain produced during the
Goryeo dynasty, from 918 to 1392, but most often refers to
celadon (greenware). Celadon techniques were first introduced from China; Goryeo potters established a native style by the 12th century. One of these native styles is characterized by the
sanggam technique, a way of
inlaying that was unique to Goryeo celadon. The color of the celadon, called
bisaek for 'green', was also highly admired. The celadon industry arose and declined as the Goryeo dynasty developed. A large number of wares were produced at the
Gangjin Kiln Sites in southwestern Korea.
This picture shows a 12th-century celadon pitcher produced during the Goryeo dynasty, with the head of a dragon and the body of a fish. The pitcher has been catalogued as a National Treasure of South Korea and forms part of the collection of the National Museum of Korea.Pitcher credit: unknown; photographed by the National Museum of Korea