Exceptionally Preserved Lacquerware Showcases Traditional Korean Craftsmanship

Courtesy of CULTURAL HERITAGE ADMINISTRATION

A special exhibit featuring a rare najeon chilgi box from the Goryeo Dynasty commenced at the National Palace Museum of Korea in central Seoul on Thursday, running until January 7. Najeon chilgi is a traditional Korean lacquerware technique intricately inlaid with mother-of-pearl. 

▲ Courtesy of CULTURAL HERITAGE ADMINISTRATION
This specific najeon chilgi box, dating back to the renaissance of the Goryeo Dynasty, made a notable return from Japan in July. The relic has been a subject of extensive scientific analysis since its repatriation. Notably valuable for its minimal repairs compared to similar lacquerware, fewer than 20 najeon chilgi items from the Goryeo Dynasty are known to exist worldwide.

Measuring 33 centimeters wide, 18.5 centimeters long, and 19.4 centimeters tall, the box features mother-of-pearl patterns predominantly crafted from certain mollusk shells. Adorned with representative Goryeo mother-of-pearl motifs like chrysanthemum vine and peony vine designs, the exhibit allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship through X-ray photographs and 3-D scans.

Choi Eong-chon, head of the Cultural Heritage Administration and an expert in najeon chilgi, will host a talk session about the artifact in January (exact date to be announced). The National Palace Museum of Korea, located next to Gyeongbok Palace, is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., extending to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays. For more information, visit gogung.go.kr or call (02) 3701-7500. Access the museum via Gyeongbokgung Station, line No. 3, exit 5.

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Kang In sig, insig6622@naver.com