Joseon cylindrical stone box [small]

A lidded box made of stone, known to enthusiasts as a "stone box," was used as a container for chopped tobacco during the Joseon Dynasty. It is a classic among Joseon stonework, and is highly popular for its simple shape and lustrous deep black color.

The most common shape of stone boxes is square, followed by square, and cylindrical ones are relatively rare.

The lid is designed to be thicker in the center and to appear slightly bulging when closed. The bottom is slightly smaller and has a step.

The surface has been polished to a glossy finish using a technique unique to Korean stonemasons, which involves applying oil and then polishing, giving it a dull, jet-black shine.

Many stone boxes have turned whitish over the years, or the unevenness of their surfaces has become noticeable through use, but this one is in good condition, and combined with the careful craftsmanship of the original workmanship, it exudes elegance.

[Natural Cut]

Surrounded by stone mountains and blessed with an abundance of stone, the Korean Peninsula has developed a wide variety of stonework products, from everyday cooking utensils to stationery used by literati. Soetsu Yanagi affectionately called Korean stonework products "stone items," and collected and highly praised many of them.

It is an attractive object, but it can also be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as as a flower vase or incense burner.

We also have larger sizes of the same shape. Please refer to the following page.

▶ ︎Joseon cylindrical stone box [large]