The kundika originated in India as a water bottle for ascetics and was eventually transported to East Asia by Buddhist pilgrims for ritual use. A Korean text from the fist half of the twelth century reports that kundika were used by virtually everyone from court officials and Buddhist monks down to the common people, to store water. It was a very popular shape in Korea during the Koryo period; so far no example of a kundika has been found before or after this period. Bronze versions, which were generally less costly and more durable, survive in large numbers. Celadon examples are accordingly rare and highly prized.

The kundika is filled through the lidded spout on the shoulder. (The lid on this example has been lost). Water is poured through the narrow, tubelike mouth that extends from a distinctively long neck with a rim in the shape of a sword guard. The upper part of the flanged neck-rim here is incised with lotus petals.

The design of reeds and geese is inlaid with great delicacy and skill to create a simple, but evocative landscape. The painterly composition is neither crowded nor static. It is a peaceful, lyrical scene redolent with poetic overtones. The glaze is a very beautiful green.