Stackable Sewing Boxes (Jijang Samhap), 지장삼합  thumbnail 1
Stackable Sewing Boxes (Jijang Samhap), 지장삼합  thumbnail 2
Not currently on display at the V&A

Stackable Sewing Boxes (Jijang Samhap), 지장삼합

Sewing Box
1850 - 1950 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

Korea was renowned for its paper making during the Choson period, 1392-1910. The durability and strength of Korean paper combined to produce brightly coloured containers for use in the women's quarters of the house. Boxes for needlework were often decorated with butterflies, bats and the t'aeguk mark. This design of circled commas suggests the dynamic harmony of the universe. The decoration formed a talisman to prevent misfortune and ensure happiness.


Object details

Category
Object type
Parts
This object consists of 2 parts.

  • Box
  • Lid
TitleStackable Sewing Boxes (Jijang Samhap), 지장삼합
Materials and techniques
Physical description
The smallest of a set of three sewing boxes which have paper cut-outs glued on to a paper and bamboo frames. The decoration is of green, yellow, red and blue triangles with central t'aeguk and butterfly motifs.

Colour: Multi-coloured
Dimensions
  • Height: 11.3cm
  • Width: 41cm
  • Depth: 24.5cm
Style
Summary
Korea was renowned for its paper making during the Choson period, 1392-1910. The durability and strength of Korean paper combined to produce brightly coloured containers for use in the women's quarters of the house. Boxes for needlework were often decorated with butterflies, bats and the t'aeguk mark. This design of circled commas suggests the dynamic harmony of the universe. The decoration formed a talisman to prevent misfortune and ensure happiness.
Bibliographic reference
Liz Wilkinson. Birds, Bats & Butterflies in Korean Art. London: Sun Tree Publishing, Singapore, 1996, 7879.
Collection
Accession number
FE.19:1-1993

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Record createdApril 5, 2000
Record URL
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