Mother-of-pearl lacquerware
Artworks with a splendid and mysterious charm like jewels
After applying a base coat to a well-dried wooden frame (baekgol), hemp cloth is attached to solidify it and prevent warping. Then, seashells (such as conch, abalone, and pearls; collectively referred to as 'mother-of-pearl') are cut into various shapes and attached, hammered to create patterns, or inlaid onto the surface that has been re-lacquered. Since lacquer is primarily used in the crafting process, it is commonly referred to as Najeon (mother-of-pearl decoration) lacquerware. Najeon lacquerware is an intricate process that can take months or even years to produce, and the colors of the mother-of-pearl harmonizing with the lacquer create a work of art that possesses a splendid and mysterious charm, much like a jewel.
World's finest luxury goods, mother-of-pearl lacquerware
Korean lacquerware has been used since around the 3rd century BC, and mother-of-pearl lacquerware of the Goryeo Dynasty
It is considered the world's best luxury brand.
Mother-of-pearl lacquerware
-
Korean Headword: Mother-of-pearl lacquerware
-
Chinese character entry: 螺鈿漆器
-
Definition: Lacquerware decorated by inlaying luminous shells, such as those of the night-blooming shell or abalone, into various patterns on the surface of lacquered vessels or furniture. [Dictionary of World Art Terms]
-
Ministry of Culture and Tourism notation : najeon chilgi
