footed plate, unknown maker from Korea

Baegja is a type of white porcelain produced during the Joseon dynasty for use in ancestral worship. The frugal pragmatism and simple beauty of baegja embodied the spirit of Korean Confucianism. Confucianism was based on the writings of the Chinese philosopher Confucius (551 BCE–479 BCE), who emphasized the importance of family harmony and social order over spiritual values. Although used in ancestor worship, the vessel incorporates aspects from Buddhism as seen in the Cintāmaṇi or “wish-fulfilling jewel” that forms the handle on the lidded bowl.