Buncheong 분청
Some time ago, a vintage watch friend from Switzerland and I discovered we shared another common interest in ceramic arts. I was pleasantly surprised when he introduced me to a Korean ceramics artist just outside Seoul, South Korea. Mr. Sangwook Huh (@sangwookhuh ) kindly invited me and my friends to his studio for a tour.
The completed works section in Mr. Sangwook Huh’s studio.
Mr. Huh specialises in Buncheong (분청; 분장회청사기), a style of traditional Korean ceramics that was prevalent between the 13th and the 16th centuries. The technique involves applying a white clay surface onto a grey or grey-black clay base. Patterns and art are made by contrasting the two layers.
While Buncheong is not as well known as other iconic Korean ceramics styles - such as Goryeo Celadon (고려청자) and Joseon White Porcelain (조선백자) - it is easily recognised through its unique texture and colour tones. Buncheong is perhaps less elegant than the other aforementioned styles, but it is more humble and approachable. It also allows for more modern interpretations, which Mr. Huh capitalises to the fullest.
A pig-faced furnace in Mr. Sangwook Huh’s studio.
Mr. Huh was welcoming and friendly, and his personality was reflected in the small details in his studio. Particularly memorable was this pig-faced furnace warming up the studio. We got to see a wide range of Mr. Huh’s works during the tour, and even managed to purchase a few pieces to take home. He had everything from diminutive tea cups to sculptural works larger than stools. I was particularly fond of the vases, which carried such an organic look - obviously hand made and down-to-earth with ample asymmetry.
A small selection of Mr. Sangwook Huh’s more austere works.
A lot of teacups with comical art.
A lot of completed vases.
Mr. Huh was fascinated by the vintage Reverso I wore to the visit. I chose this watch because of the dimensionality on the dial - which echoes some design themes seen in the ceramic arts - and the uniqueness of the case. As a ceramics artist Mr. Huh was obviously fascinated by shapes and forms, and was surprised by the genius design that remained completely relevant nearly a hundred years after its conception.
As a Korean, I could have never imagined I would be introduced to a Korean ceramics artist by a Swiss gentleman. Moments and days like this really elevate the hobby of collecting watches beyond the mere gathering of objects; it’s truly amazing to see the kind of friendships and acquaintances this hobby can foster.
A first series vintage Reverso worn to visit the studio.