Ritual ewer (kundika)

This type of ritual ewer (kundika in Sanskrit) was derived from water vessels used in ancient India and later used by Buddhist monks to pour holy water during rituals. In Korea this sweet dew is believed to have the power to quench thirst and to ease the sufferings of all living creatures. This ritual ewer is inlaid with silver patterns depicting willow trees and a peaceful waterscape. The inlay technique was highly developed during the Goryeo dynasty and was found in other genres of art such as mother-of-pearl lacquerware and celadons.