For a discussion of these wares see Rhee, Byung-chang, Masterpieces of Korean Art--Yi Ceramics (Tokyo: University of Tokyo Press, 1978). The author notes that underglaze painting in iron brown was produced in China toward the end of the 15th century but did not remain popular. In Korea, however, large numbers of this type of ware were manufactured although their origins are unclear. Abundant quantities of iron oxide were available to Korean potters and as a result numerous provincial kilns, in addition to the official kilns in Kwangju, manufactured these wares. The effect of the deep brown pigment against the grey/white glaze (caused by the high iron content) appealed to the native aesthetic, which in turn stimulated demand for these wares, especially during the 17th century.

Jars, painted vividly with dragons in clouds--revealing the spontaneity of these wares--are the most frequently encountered examples. Jars decorated with flowering plants are much less common--one example was sold in these Rooms, March 26th, 1991, lot 284 for a record price. The popularity of these wares in Japan has been constant since the 17th century, where the term Chochin tsubo (Paper lantern form jar) is used to describe this vessel's particular shape. The plant illustrated here is probably ginseng.

For another jar of this type see, Koyama Fujio, et al., Korean Ceramics of the Yi Dynasty in Sekai Toji zenshu, Vol. 14 (Tokyo: Kawade Shobo, 1956), no. 121.