Fish-shaped locks were among the most commonly found items in Korean homes. Just like the turtle, the fish symbolized protection, with their vigilant eyes always open. These fish-shaped locks would safeguard possessions while household members slept. Crafted from metal molds, these whimsically designed yellow brass locks were used to secure wardrobe armoires, wedding trousseau boxes, […]
Featured image on top of this post: Box with design of auspicious symbols, early 20th century.Ink and paint on ox horn panels on wood, ray skin, and metal.DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ART MUSEUM, USA The term “hwagak” is derived from the words for flowers and horns, and it specifically pertains to the craft of inlaying ox […]
Shagreen has been prized since the time of the pharaohs in Egypt and during the Chinese Han Dynasty (202 BC – AD 220). In China, it was used in the construction of bows. In Japan, shagreen has been well-documented and preserved since it began appearing on the sword hilts and armor of Japanese Samurai during […]
Hanji (Korean: 한지/韓紙) is the traditional handmade paper from Korea. It is made from the inner bark of the mulberry tree or linden tree (Tilia amurensis) both native to Korea, which helps suspend the individual fibers in water. Despite being paper, Hanji is extremely tough, waterproof, and versatile. Because of its durability and availability, this […]
Paulownia tree is called “Odong namu” in Korean 오동나무. Paulownia coreana, grows primarily in East Asia, with the southern region of Gyeonggi Province in Korea, including Seoul, being a notable area for its growth. Throughout history, it has been highly regarded for its exceptional wood quality and has been a preferred material for crafting furniture. […]
The Chinese character for bat is pronounced the same as the character for good fortune (in Korean, “복” or “폭탄”). This similarity led to bat images being embroidered on pillow ends and incorporated into furniture designs and fittings as a symbol of good fortune. As bats were believed to live for a long time, their […]
This post is the first in a series of articles related to a study of the Korean people through their arts, particularly their furniture. Most of the antique Korean furniture available today is known as “Joseon” furniture. The Joseon dynasty, also transcribed as Chosŏn or Chosun, in Korean: 대조선국, was the last dynastic kingdom of […]