
Renowned Spanish ceramist Rubén Mañás is making waves in the world of ceramics with his exceptional mastery of the traditional Korean technique known as “moon jar.” This distinctive form, characterized by two nearly identical hemispheres of clay, dates back to the Joseon era (1392-1910) and has become a symbol of balance and harmony in the ceramic arts.
Mañás honed his skills under the guidance of esteemed ceramic master Yoo Sung in South Korea, where he deepened his understanding of this globally appreciated technique, celebrated for its elegance and aesthetic appeal. His dedication to the craft allows him to create pieces that not only showcase technical precision but also evoke a sense of aesthetic simplicity.
For Mañás, the moon jar represents a unique blend of tradition and innovation. “This spherical form, of Korean origin, embodies the union of tradition and technical precision. Each time I create one on the wheel, I strive to capture that duality,” he expressed in an interview on the Rukoryo platform, his artistic name.
Reflecting on his inspiration, Mañás shared, “I was inspired by two things: on one hand, the beauty of the jar struck me like a lightning bolt, and on the other, the difficulty of making it. These two aspects captivated me, and I decided to immerse myself in this specialty until I mastered it. This decision represents a professional step forward in my career and, personally, a state of satisfaction and an endless pursuit of perfection. It’s hard to explain, but I feel in constant search of perfection and mastery of Korean ceramics.”
He also spoke about the challenges posed by his mentor, Yoo Sung, stating, “The challenges my teacher set for me to perfect the moon jar—such as measuring, controlling, being unsatisfied, and rectifying—instilled in me a level of extreme discipline and perfectionism. To this day, I am very strict with myself and my work, whether in the pottery wheel courses I teach or in the pieces I create.”
As he continues to share his passion for ceramics, Mañás invites audiences to appreciate the intricate craftsmanship and rich history behind this traditional art form, celebrating the beauty and cultural significance of the moon jar in contemporary ceramics.
Photo credits: The photos are from the artist’s archive.