Vintage Korean Ceramic Relief Souvenir Cup
Collectibles - Souvenirs & Art Pottery

Vintage Korean Ceramic Relief Souvenir Cup

This ceramic vessel is a small, barrel-shaped souvenir cup featuring decorative high-relief imagery. The ivory-colored glazed body is adorned with three-dimensional molded designs, including bundles of dark blue grapes and stylized green grapevine leaves with earthen-brown stems. Centered within a circular medallion is a detailed relief of a traditional Korean pagoda (possibly reflecting the architecture of Gyeongju), set against a deep cobalt blue background. Above the pagoda, there is Hangul script, likely identifying the location or a commemorative message. The glaze is glossy and shows a slightly crackled texture consistent with light aging. In terms of condition, the item appears structurally sound with no large visible cracks or significant chips on the exterior relief, though light surface grime is present along the recessed areas. The interior shows a clean, cream-colored glaze. This style of ceramics was particularly popular as tourist memorabilia in South Korea during the 1970s and 1980s. The craftsmanship is of a commercial production quality, emphasizing mass-produced souvenir charm rather than high-art pottery.

Estimated Value

$15-$25

Basic Information

Category

Collectibles - Souvenirs & Art Pottery

Appraised On

February 5, 2026

Estimated Value

$15-$25

Item Description

This ceramic vessel is a small, barrel-shaped souvenir cup featuring decorative high-relief imagery. The ivory-colored glazed body is adorned with three-dimensional molded designs, including bundles of dark blue grapes and stylized green grapevine leaves with earthen-brown stems. Centered within a circular medallion is a detailed relief of a traditional Korean pagoda (possibly reflecting the architecture of Gyeongju), set against a deep cobalt blue background. Above the pagoda, there is Hangul script, likely identifying the location or a commemorative message. The glaze is glossy and shows a slightly crackled texture consistent with light aging. In terms of condition, the item appears structurally sound with no large visible cracks or significant chips on the exterior relief, though light surface grime is present along the recessed areas. The interior shows a clean, cream-colored glaze. This style of ceramics was particularly popular as tourist memorabilia in South Korea during the 1970s and 1980s. The craftsmanship is of a commercial production quality, emphasizing mass-produced souvenir charm rather than high-art pottery.

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