Bowl with Pseudo Inscription c. 10th century

Curator: Take a moment to consider this ceramic bowl, thought to originate around the 10th century. What is compelling is the “pseudo inscription” circling near its center. It is an example of Asian art housed here at The Art Institute of Chicago. Editor: My initial response is one of curiosity mixed with melancholy. The bowl has clearly seen better days, and there's a wabi-sabi charm in its imperfection. The glaze is also striking, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Curator: Absolutely. The deliberate use of simulated calligraphy offers a unique insight into cultural identity of the era. The inscription’s meaning isn’t literal; but it invokes literacy and education as emblems of a high social status, hinting to possible function as serving ware in upper class families. Editor: The bowl definitely embodies a powerful symbolism through this artistic medium, playing with authenticity and perceived value. Those bold, green splashes seem almost primal against the more muted background. Are those splashes just decoration, or do you think they represent something specific? Curator: Now, that’s up for speculation. One thing that is certain, however, is that this bowl allows us to investigate cultural aspirations of the past and social roles that art has in shaping one's standing. In today’s language, perhaps we can call it aspirational? Editor: Possibly! Ultimately, that inscription suggests to me the potent human desire to grasp and replicate what is admired. Though abstracted and not truly legible, those symbols hold such potency. Thank you for drawing attention to these symbolic undercurrents! Curator: My pleasure! Thank you for allowing me to re-examine this interesting example of cultural display. I am sure listeners will now observe other artifacts of the past with deeper historical questions.