The Symbolism of Sculpture and Cultural Significance of Koryŏ Sculpted Celadon: Focusing on Sculpted Celadon at Kaegyŏng and Kang-do

This study examines the symbolism of motifs found in Koryŏ sculpted celadon and explores their uses and meanings, focusing on celadon at Kaegyŏng and Kang-do. Motifs such as gourds, pomegranates, peaches, rabbits, monkeys, and toads were interpreted as symbols of “longevity and continuity,” while aquatic birds and amphibious creatures such as turtles were understood as mediators between the divine and the human. These motifs express a strong desire for immortality, reflecting the this-worldly and wish-fulfilling aspirations of the period. Furthermore, they served a governing purpose, symbolizing the sanctification and reinforcement of royal authority through the promotion of the king’s longevity, the perpetuation of his reign, and the well-being of the state.The banquets and rituals organized by the Koryŏ royal court, the upper class's culture of incense burning, wine drinking, and art appreciation guided by the ideal of muwijayŏn (effortless naturalness), and the Taoist philosophy centered on immortality collectively shaped the socio-cultural atmosphere of the Koryŏ period, particularly among the royal family and aristocracy. Within this context, Koryŏ sculpted celadon was actively produced and utilized from the 12th to the 13th century. Distinguished by its naturalistic and unique expressions, Koryŏ sculpted celadon established an independent domain in both aesthetic appreciation and practical functionality.