Vessels
“Moon-eyed, I see you” by Yoona Hur
Honor the potter, for they unite earth, water, air, and fire into a humble vessel that cradles life’s provisions. Like these sacred creations, we too are fragile yet vital—formed by nature to house a soul far greater than our mortal frame.
Remy Gold
When I first saw Yoona Hur’s moon jar with its bronze-stitched fracture, I felt a quiet sense of recognition. At the time, I was navigating a difficult period—feeling fractured myself, as though a crack had formed within me. Yet in that moment, I realized it was more than a repair—it was a celebration of imperfection, a gentle grace in how it highlights, rather than hides, its own scar.
The vessel’s rounded form and soft glaze invite reflection, gently coaxing us to acknowledge our own hidden breaks—and to imagine them gilded. That gleaming fault line reminded me that by embracing our cracks, we can transform them into something that deepens our story, turning pain into an unexpected kind of radiance.
Perhaps equally meaningful was the friendship I developed with Yoona after becoming a collector of her work. To create pieces like hers, one must truly understand who they are, what matters most to them, and what they hope to share with the world. This friendship was an unexpected gift—one I’m deeply grateful for, and from which I’ve learned so much.
14th-century Shigaraki jar
A few months later, I returned to Japan after a three-year hiatus—but this time, without a plan. I decided to trust that I would find whatever I was meant to, and indeed, I did. I encountered kind strangers, shared deep and thoughtful conversations, found moments of quiet reflection and peace, savored unforgettable meals with both old and new friends, and felt renewed inspiration in the country’s art and craftsmanship. Yet of all these moments, my favorite discovery was stumbling upon Robert Yellen’s gallery in Kyoto.
Upon entering Robert’s gallery, I was greeted by a display of ceramics so vibrant they seemed to pulse with life—truly one of the most exquisite collections I’ve ever seen. I spent over three hours with Robert that day, bonding over our mutual love of music and art. At one point, he recounted a remarkable experience guiding Steve Jobs around Kyoto, specifically to see a type of vessel called a Shigaraki jar. As luck would have it, one of the jars I was most interested in was also a Shigaraki—one of only two Robert had ever acquired in his long career. This particular piece dates back to the 14th century, nearly 700 years old.
Today, I feel honored to be the steward of that very jar, along with other remarkable pieces from Robert’s gallery. Each time I see these vessels in my home, I’m reminded of the importance of preserving cultural legacies—both historic pieces and the contemporary artists who continue to carry these traditions forward.
