Stoneware stand

From Silla, Korea
5th-6th century AD

For ritual or ceremonious purposes

Silla was situated in the south-east corner of the Korean peninsula. As it absorbed the confederation of states known as Kaya in the sixth century, Silla also adopted many of its technological achievements, including pottery. Kayan potters were the most advanced in all of Korea, using the first kilns and the potter's wheel in the peninsula.

This type of tall pedestal stand was common in Kaya, and later in Silla. The form of the opening is also Kayan. However, stands from Silla usually had a straighter profile, rather than the more curved profile of stands from Kaya. The stand's impressive size and dramatic shape imply that it had a ritual use

J. Portal, Korea - art and archaeology (London, The British Museum Press, 2000)