In another article, we discussed the topic of metal fittings on Korean furniture. METALWORK PATTERNS ON KOREAN FURNITURE. That initial analysis focused on their categorization across all types of furniture as well as their symbolism. In this new publication, we focus solely on the fittings found on the bandaji. Drawings courtesy of: Wooden furniture : Understanding […]
CHANGSOK. “Changsok” refers to the metal decoration used on Korean furniture. These metal fixtures served both utilitarian and decorative purposes, being crafted from materials like cast iron, copper, tin, nickel, and white brass. The white brass alloy, which includes tin and sometimes nickel in addition to the conventional copper and zinc found in yellow brass, […]
소목 (Somok), traditional joinery. During the Joseon Period, a wide range of joining techniques was employed. While Korea’s climate, characterized by four distinct seasons, facilitated the availability of exquisite woods, it also led to significant wood movement, resulting in warping and cracking of wood panels. A piece of furniture typically comprised three main components: the top, body, […]