Garment Box

Currently not on view

Garment Box

Late 19th century

Artist/maker unknown, Korean

Mother-of-pearl inlay was a popular form of embellishment for women’s objects and furnishings; the elaborate peonies with swirling scrolls pattern on this box was an especially beloved motif during the Joseon period. On the lid are eight Chinese characters that express wishes for good health, wealth, peace, and many male offspring for the owner. This kind of box would have been used for clothing storage in the women’s quarter of an upper-class Korean home.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Garment Box

Date:

Late 19th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Korean

Medium:

Lacquered wood with mother-of-pearl inlay and brass wire decoration

Dimensions:

12 1/8 x 27 3/4 x 15 1/2 inches (30.8 x 70.5 x 39.4 cm)

Classification:

Containers

Credit Line:

Purchased with the James and Agnes Kim Foundation Fund, 2006

Accession Number:

2006-60-1

Geography:

Made in Korea, Asia

Context:

Dynasty: Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910)

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Currently not on view