Kendi (Spouted Jar)

Thailand
15th-16th century
Porcelain with incised design under glaze (Si Satchanalai ware)
H. 5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm), D. 6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm); 1979.94

Artist Comments

Tan Dun
A Re-Departure on the Past

In the process of choosing these objects,
I have reflected on the experience of drinking these three spirits as one--composing.

Wine: ritual
Tea: mind
Water: eternity

With wine comes both sorrow and cheer. With tea comes both the bitter and sweet. With water comes the complexity of life and transparency.

Which one is the hardest to drink?
Water, tea, or wine?

To me, water is the most difficult to taste--
An endless mirror

What is it to you?
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