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All parts of this chest, including the back, were made from solid zelkova planks, a luxury wood related to elm but with a more pronounced grain. This specimen has escaped aggressive cleaning with modern compounds and retains its original patina. The dovetail joints between the lower front panel and sides and the back and side panels are superbly wrought. The iron lock plate in the middle of the front is fashioned into an auspicious character, bok (good fortune). The rectangular iron hinges and square supporting corner brackets are fashioned into Buddhist swastika patterns. The four arms of each swastika radiate out from the center like the spokes of a wheel, symbolizing the rotation of the universe around the cosmic Buddha.<br /> <br /> This chest was kept in a lady&rsquo;s quarter (<em>anbang</em> ) to store clothes. Marks left on the inner surface indicate that the chest once contained a shelf. The side panels, back panel, and bottom panel were joined by finger joints, while the side panels and top plate
Korean (Korean (culture or style))
Namhae Chest
1833 – 1866
Museum Purchase made possible by the Margaret Watson Parker Art Collection Fund
2009/2.90
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