Oil jar with floral motifs 918 - 1392

Curator: Right now, we're looking at a beautiful, understated piece: an oil jar with floral motifs, dating back to between 918 and 1392. Editor: Mmm, it's got a kind of quietness to it, doesn't it? Like something you'd find tucked away in a cabinet, a little secret treasure. Curator: Exactly. It’s currently part of the collection here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art and we believe the jar is made from ceramic, or stoneware. It's really intriguing because, despite being functional, it has this undeniably artistic sensibility. Editor: The shape is what grabs me first. That perfectly round body with the narrow neck. It reminds me of a minimalist sculpture. Are the floral decorations just painted on? Curator: It looks as if the flowers were applied via the mishima technique which basically involves inlaying contrasting clay to create the pattern. They add a delicate, organic feel, almost like ghostly impressions on the surface. Editor: There's an asymmetry, though. The flowers are not evenly spaced, are they? Does that throw off the balance somehow? Curator: In a way, it does challenge formal symmetry. It keeps things lively, avoids rigidity. It is a testament to the way nature and function could merge seamlessly in ceramics. Editor: I appreciate that imperfect beauty; it feels authentic. It's easy to get lost in its simplicity, and appreciate the handcrafting... the touch of the person who made it centuries ago. I see this and I feel it too! Curator: Yes, each piece tells a story. Thanks for highlighting how much character is captured by design.