Celadon duck-shaped water dropper

This celadon container for water was used for ink stones. It was made in the shape of a duck measuring 8 centimeters (3.1 inches) in height and 12.5 centimeters in width during the Goryeo Period (918-1392) .

The duck has the stem of lotus in its mouth and the leaf and bud of the flower are situated on its back.

A hole can be seen in the lotus leaf located in the middle of the bird’s back. Water is poured into the hole, which has a small lotus bud lid that can be placed over it.

The spout is located on the right side of the duck’s mouth.

It seems that the hole is connected to the end of the bud, but it is impossible to identify its original form because this part is damaged.

This container portrays the duck quite realistically - one can even see its feathers.

But at the same time the creature is expressed in an elegant manner.

One can guess that this item belonged to a powerful aristocrat at the time, given the refined carving methods and the elegant jade green color of this piece of art.

Name: Celadon Duck-shaped Water Dropper
Period: Goryeo Period
Location: Seongbuk District, Seoul
Status: National Treasure No. 74

*The photos and text for National Treasure are provided by the Cultural Heritage Administration. For more information, call (042) 481-4650 or visit www.cha.go.kr