Nationalmuseumofkoreavol28 en by KOCIS

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF KOREA | QUARTERLY MAGAZINE

LANDSCAPES: SEEKING THE IDEAL LAND DATE JULY 29 – SEPTEMBER 28, 2014 VENUE SPECIAL EXHIBITION GALLERY, PERMANENT EXHIBITION HALL

VOL. 28

The exhibition Landscapes: Seeking the Ideal Land compares and contrasts the landscape paintings of Korea, China and Japan through the common theme of “the ideal land,” a long beloved theme in East rea to bring together the landscape masterpieces of the three countries including Yi Inmun’s Streams and Mountains Without End from the collection of the National Museum of Korea, Qian Xuan’s Ode on

SUMMER 2014

Asian cultures. Featuring 112 works, the exhibition is the first in Ko-

Returning Home from China, and So Ami’s Eight Views of the Xiao and Xiang Rivers from Japan. The exhibition provides the opportunity to explore the diverse perspectives on what constitutes an ideal land seen with the mind’s eye of the people of old, and the changes that appeared according to the era. It also encourages us to look back on ourselves as people who sought to find peace in nature from the past to the present.

SUMMER 2014 VOL.28

QUARTERLY MAGAZINE ISSN: 2005-1123

DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

CONTENTS

QUARTERLY MAGAZINE VOL.28 SUMMER 2014

Summer is upon us, a time when everyone appreciates a nice cool place to get away

National Museum of Korea

from the scorching heat. We at the National Museum of Korea have been working hard

140-026, Korea

137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul,

to provide you with just such a place while upgrading our exhibitions and exhibition

Tel: (82 2) 2077-9573

facilities.

E-mail: polagu47@korea.kr

This May, we opened Musée d'Orsay as part of our ongoing exchange program with some of the world’s leading museums and art museums to introduce the histories and cultures of various regions around the globe. The artworks from the Musée d'Orsay provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the French art scene as well as the dramatic changes in European art and life during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Fax: (82 2) 2077-9258

CONNECT WITH LEGACY

Publisher:

Design and Production:

CULTURE THEMA

Ahn Graphics Inc., Editorial Team

THE IDEALIZED STANDARDS FOR ANCIENT SCULPTURE IN KOREA AND GREECE

Translation / Revision:

Timothy V. Atkinson / Cho Yoonjung

forth by the Korean Committee for

series on Buddhist paintings. You can have a leisurely look at a hanging scroll more than

Ethics in Book and Magazine Publication.

six meters long once used for Buddhist outdoor rituals, learn about the many stories

reproduced or transmitted in any form or

related to this piece, and contemplate the sincere devotion that the piece engenders.

No part of this publication may be by any means, electronic or mechanical,

CONNECT WITH NMK

Buddhist Hanging Scroll at Heungguksa Temple through October 26 as part of our regular

National Museum of Korea, a quarterly

to present items to the public for the first time. You have an opportunity to see both Unified Silla Buddhist art and the culture of the aristocratic elite (in the capital).

VISITOR

writing from the publisher. Printed in Korea

THEME EXHIBITION

ENCOUNTER WITH AMITAYUS IN SUKHAVATI: BUDDHIST HANGING SCROLL AT HEUNGGUKSA TEMPLE

Note to Readers:

The renovation work at our regional national museums is also ongoing. Gimhae Nation-

The related information of image is given in the following order: title, period or

al Museum completed a year-long refurbishment of the permanent exhibition facilities,

produced year, material, dimensions and

which reopened this April. The overhaul allows visitors to get more out of the museum

Items from all other institutions are

experience.

PARIS, CITY OF MEMORIES & INSPIRATION

system, without prior permission in

artifacts and our research findings related to them. For example, we recently overhauled the exhibits inside the Unified Silla Room of the Prehistory and Ancient History Gallery

SPECIAL EXHIBITION

ART AND LIFE OF THE FIN DE SIÈCLE PARIS BEYOND IMPRESSIONISM: MASTERPIECES FROM THE MUSÉE D’ORSAY

including photocopy, recording, or any other information storage and retrieval

We continue to upgrade our exhibits in order to present you with the newly excavated

CURATOR TALK

Design Team of the NMK

magazine, abides by the principles set

02 HEO MOK, JOSEON SCHOLAR & IDEALIST

Editorial Direction:

Lee Mijin / Hwang Chiyoung

Meanwhile, we are running the thematic exhibit Encounter with Amitāyus in Sukhāvatī:

SPECIAL COLUMN

GREAT TOMB AT HWANGNAM: A SILLA TIME CAPSULE

RNM EXHIBITION

GAYA: A MARITIME NATION & KINGDOM OF IRON

management number.

classified by their collection names.

RNM EXHIBITION

Meanwhile, the National Museum of Korea will advance steadily by adding new pieces to

THE LANDSCAPE OF CHUNGCHEONGBUK-DO IN BOOKS AND PICTURES

the collection adopting the latest display techniques. At the same time, we will continue

to make our facilities more pleasant and convenient and look forward to seeing you with

Thank you.

CONNECT WITH WORLD

us soon.

LECTURE AT NMK

PERFECTION OF ENGLISH GENTLEMANSHIP: MUSEUMS AND THE GRAND TOUR

32 TALK AT FACEBOOK

THE TIGER: FEARLESS VS. FRIENDLY

34 DIRECTOR-GENERAL, THE NATIONAL MUSEUMS OF KOREA SUMMER, 2014

CONNECT WITH NEWS

Kim Youngna

N EWS

36 EXHIBITION & PUBLICATIONS

38 NEW SPACE, NEW VIEW

HIDDEN BEAUTIES REVEALED IN THE RENEWED UNIFIED SILLA ROOM

DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

CONTENTS

QUARTERLY MAGAZINE VOL.28 SUMMER 2014

Summer is upon us, a time when everyone appreciates a nice cool place to get away

National Museum of Korea

from the scorching heat. We at the National Museum of Korea have been working hard

140-026, Korea

137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul,

to provide you with just such a place while upgrading our exhibitions and exhibition

Tel: (82 2) 2077-9573

facilities.

E-mail: polagu47@korea.kr

Fax: (82 2) 2077-9258

CONNECT WITH LEGACY

Publisher:

Design and Production:

CULTURE THEMA

Ahn Graphics Inc., Editorial Team

THE IDEALIZED STANDARDS FOR ANCIENT SCULPTURE IN KOREA AND GREECE

Translation / Revision:

Timothy V. Atkinson / Cho Yoonjung

forth by the Korean Committee for

series on Buddhist paintings. You can have a leisurely look at a hanging scroll more than

Ethics in Book and Magazine Publication.

six meters long once used for Buddhist outdoor rituals, learn about the many stories

reproduced or transmitted in any form or

related to this piece, and contemplate the sincere devotion that the piece engenders.

No part of this publication may be by any means, electronic or mechanical,

CONNECT WITH NMK

Buddhist Hanging Scroll at Heungguksa Temple through October 26 as part of our regular

National Museum of Korea, a quarterly

to present items to the public for the first time. You have an opportunity to see both Unified Silla Buddhist art and the culture of the aristocratic elite (in the capital).

VISITOR

writing from the publisher. Printed in Korea

THEME EXHIBITION

ENCOUNTER WITH AMITAYUS IN SUKHAVATI: BUDDHIST HANGING SCROLL AT HEUNGGUKSA TEMPLE

Note to Readers:

The renovation work at our regional national museums is also ongoing. Gimhae Nation-

The related information of image is given in the following order: title, period or

al Museum completed a year-long refurbishment of the permanent exhibition facilities,

produced year, material, dimensions and

which reopened this April. The overhaul allows visitors to get more out of the museum

Items from all other institutions are

experience.

PARIS, CITY OF MEMORIES & INSPIRATION

system, without prior permission in

artifacts and our research findings related to them. For example, we recently overhauled the exhibits inside the Unified Silla Room of the Prehistory and Ancient History Gallery

SPECIAL EXHIBITION

ART AND LIFE OF THE FIN DE SIÈCLE PARIS BEYOND IMPRESSIONISM: MASTERPIECES FROM THE MUSÉE D’ORSAY

including photocopy, recording, or any other information storage and retrieval

We continue to upgrade our exhibits in order to present you with the newly excavated

CURATOR TALK

Design Team of the NMK

magazine, abides by the principles set

02 HEO MOK, JOSEON SCHOLAR & IDEALIST

Editorial Direction:

Lee Mijin / Hwang Chiyoung

Meanwhile, we are running the thematic exhibit Encounter with Amitāyus in Sukhāvatī:

SPECIAL COLUMN

GREAT TOMB AT HWANGNAM: A SILLA TIME CAPSULE

RNM EXHIBITION

GAYA: A MARITIME NATION & KINGDOM OF IRON

management number.

classified by their collection names.

RNM EXHIBITION

Meanwhile, the National Museum of Korea will advance steadily by adding new pieces to

THE LANDSCAPE OF CHUNGCHEONGBUK-DO IN BOOKS AND PICTURES

the collection adopting the latest display techniques. At the same time, we will continue

to make our facilities more pleasant and convenient and look forward to seeing you with

Thank you.

CONNECT WITH WORLD

us soon.

LECTURE AT NMK

PERFECTION OF ENGLISH GENTLEMANSHIP: MUSEUMS AND THE GRAND TOUR

32 TALK AT FACEBOOK

THE TIGER: FEARLESS VS. FRIENDLY

34 DIRECTOR-GENERAL, THE NATIONAL MUSEUMS OF KOREA SUMMER, 2014

CONNECT WITH NEWS

Kim Youngna

N EWS

36 EXHIBITION & PUBLICATIONS

38 NEW SPACE, NEW VIEW

HIDDEN BEAUTIES REVEALED IN THE RENEWED UNIFIED SILLA ROOM

SPECIAL COLUMN

CONNECT WITH LEGACY

NMK 2014 SUMMER

GREAT TOMB AT HWANGNAM: A SILLA TIME CAPSULE BY HONG JINGEUN, CURATOR OF THE ARCHAEOLOGY AND HISTORY DEPARTMENT

THE TOMB COMES TO LIGHT Gold Girdle Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century Gold L. 120.0 cm, W. 3.6 cm North Mound of Hwangnamdaechong, Gyeongju National Treasure No. 192 hwangbuk 45

gold crown was discovered

Hwangnamdaechong is in the center of a

evidence shows that several young women

by accident during the

Silla tumuli complex that extends from

were buried alive just south of the royal

construction of a private

Hwangnam-dong to Hwango-dong and

tomb in order to serve him in the hereafter.

residence in Noseo-dong ,

Noseo-dong. In July 1976, the Cultural

Hwangnamdaechong has a wood-

Gyeong ju in 1921, giving the world a

Properties Committee dubbed it the “Great

framed burial chamber that was covered

glimpse of the opulence enjoyed by the

Tomb at Hwangnam” because it is the larg-

with dirt, sealed with clay. On this were

elite in Silla some 1500 years earlier.

est of all the tombs in Hwangnam-dong.

placed massive river boulders that were

An ambitious archeological excavation

This twin-burial chamber tomb (for hus-

covered with a massive dirt mound. This

project was subsequently carried out on

band and wife) is laid out in the shape of

royal tomb type was common in Silla.

Hwangnam-dong Tombs 155 and 98, also

a gourd on a north-south axis. The mound

Such a construction was effective in pre-

Cheonmachong ,天馬塚

known as

Heavenly

measures 120 meters long (north-south),

venting the contents from being robbed,

Horse Tomb, and Hwangnamdaechong

80 meters wide (east-west) and 22 meters

but it also prevented the tomb from being

皇南大塚 ,

high, a massive monument built in the

reopened to bury a second person who

tween 1973 and 1975, and a treasure trove

Maripgan 麻立干, 356‒514

period as the final

died subsequently. Instead, a second tomb

of relics was retrieved, including gold

resting place for a king and a symbol of

would have to be built beside the old one.

crowns, gold caps, beads and glass articles.

his august power. Many of the luxurious

In this case, the southernmost tomb was

These tumuli serve as kind of a time cap-

items he enjoyed in life were buried along

built first, with the second one constructed

sule, and their contents astounded the

with his corpse so that he could continue

some 20–30 years later, judging from the

world once more.

to enjoy them in the after-life. Moreover,

contents that were unearthed.

The Great Tomb at Hwangnam, be-

SPECIAL COLUMN

CONNECT WITH LEGACY

NMK 2014 SUMMER

GREAT TOMB AT HWANGNAM: A SILLA TIME CAPSULE BY HONG JINGEUN, CURATOR OF THE ARCHAEOLOGY AND HISTORY DEPARTMENT

THE TOMB COMES TO LIGHT Gold Girdle Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century Gold L. 120.0 cm, W. 3.6 cm North Mound of Hwangnamdaechong, Gyeongju National Treasure No. 192 hwangbuk 45

gold crown was discovered

Hwangnamdaechong is in the center of a

evidence shows that several young women

by accident during the

Silla tumuli complex that extends from

were buried alive just south of the royal

construction of a private

Hwangnam-dong to Hwango-dong and

tomb in order to serve him in the hereafter.

residence in Noseo-dong ,

Noseo-dong. In July 1976, the Cultural

Hwangnamdaechong has a wood-

Gyeong ju in 1921, giving the world a

Properties Committee dubbed it the “Great

framed burial chamber that was covered

glimpse of the opulence enjoyed by the

Tomb at Hwangnam” because it is the larg-

with dirt, sealed with clay. On this were

elite in Silla some 1500 years earlier.

est of all the tombs in Hwangnam-dong.

placed massive river boulders that were

An ambitious archeological excavation

This twin-burial chamber tomb (for hus-

covered with a massive dirt mound. This

project was subsequently carried out on

band and wife) is laid out in the shape of

royal tomb type was common in Silla.

Hwangnam-dong Tombs 155 and 98, also

a gourd on a north-south axis. The mound

Such a construction was effective in pre-

Cheonmachong ,天馬塚

known as

Heavenly

measures 120 meters long (north-south),

venting the contents from being robbed,

Horse Tomb, and Hwangnamdaechong

80 meters wide (east-west) and 22 meters

but it also prevented the tomb from being

皇南大塚 ,

high, a massive monument built in the

reopened to bury a second person who

tween 1973 and 1975, and a treasure trove

Maripgan 麻立干, 356‒514

period as the final

died subsequently. Instead, a second tomb

of relics was retrieved, including gold

resting place for a king and a symbol of

would have to be built beside the old one.

crowns, gold caps, beads and glass articles.

his august power. Many of the luxurious

In this case, the southernmost tomb was

These tumuli serve as kind of a time cap-

items he enjoyed in life were buried along

built first, with the second one constructed

sule, and their contents astounded the

with his corpse so that he could continue

some 20–30 years later, judging from the

world once more.

to enjoy them in the after-life. Moreover,

contents that were unearthed.

The Great Tomb at Hwangnam, be-

CONNECT WITH LEGACY

Silver Crown Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century Silver H. 17.0 cm South Mound of Hwangnamdaechong, Gyeongju hwangnam 2942

NMK 2014 SUMMER

Glass Ewer and Cups Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century (from left) H. 7.4 cm, H. 7.0 cm, H. 28.0 cm, H. 6.0 cm, H. 13.0 cm

GREAT TOMB AT HWANGNAM: A SILLA TIME CAPSULE

Gold Bracelet Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century Gold and Jade W. 2.1 cm, D. 7.2 cm North Mound of Hwangnamdaechong, Gyeongju Treasure No. 623 hwangbuk 66

Gold Crown Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century Gold and Jade H. 27.3 cm, D. 17.0 cm North Mound of Hwangnamdaechong, Gyeongju National Treasure No. 191 hwangbuk 1

A CHANCE ENCOUNTER WITH SILLA EXTRAVAGANCE Myriads of items were discovered during

woman’s tomb. No Silla queen during the

these along with two antler-shaped ex-

symbolized the king, who led the ceremo-

the excavation of Hwangnamdaechong, to

Maripgan period has been confirmed to

tensions are affixed with gold nails to the

nies for linking Heaven and Earth. The deer

include gold crowns, gilt-bronze crowns,

have been a ruler, making this crown a re-

crown band. Numerous comma-shaped

antler motif emerged as an important ele-

gold girdles, necklaces and other personal

vealing find.

green jade pendants hang from the “trunks”

ment decorating the hats of Siberian sha-

and their appendages like fruit on leaves

mans and can be linked to its use in Silla.

effects; saddlery decorated with silkworm

A gold crown was found in Geum-

patterns, metal utensils, glass utensils, and

nyeongchong , 金鈴塚

Gold Bell Tomb in

of gold. These decorations add a sense of

The gold crown from the Hwangnamdae-

various pottery pieces. They demonstrate

Gyeongju, which was most likely the rest-

glamor and mystery that exemplifies the

chong north tomb was designated National

Silla culture at its most extravagant. The

ing place of a prince, not a king. Many oth-

unique aesthetic of Silla. The gold crowns

Treasure No. 191 in December 1978 and is

person buried here was undoubtedly a

er personal adornments and a figurine of a

are very fragile, as they were crafted from

now a very important exhibit in the Silla

king, given the massive size of the tomb,

man on a horse were also unearthed. This

gold leaf, and so were probably not meant

Room, part of the Prehistory and Ancient

the gold crowns, and the luxurious adorn-

means that the right to wear a gold crown

to be worn on everyday occasions. Perhaps

History Gallery at the National Museum of

ments that were put inside. These articles

was not limited to kings in Silla.

their use was reserved for important state

Korea.

suggest that the tomb was built in the 5th

The gold crowns excavated from the

ceremonies or exclusively for burial.

The caps and gold crown ornament

north tomb at Hwangnamdaechong as

The decorations on the gold crowns are

exhumed from tombs are seen to symbol-

A gilt-bronze crown and sword with a

well as from Cheonmachong , Geum-

thought to symbolize a sacred “world tree”

ize the authority of specific occupants of

decorated ring pommel were unearthed in

nyeongchong, and

Seobongchong, 瑞鳳塚

and deer. The same motifs that are found

those tombs. The caps are of the style worn

the tomb to the south of Hwangnamdae-

Auspicious Phoenix Tomb, indicate a buri-

on Scythian crowns from several centuries

by Silla people and have been adorned

chong, indicating that the deceased was a

al practice unique to Silla, where by the

prior, suggest the origin of the Silla crown

with special ornaments. Made by con-

man. On the other hand, the north tomb

upper part of the crown was tied over the

design. Moreover, an earlier gilt-bronze

necting thin gold sheets, these headgear

contents included a gold crown, silver gir-

face of the deceased.

crown that was excavated from an old

are small and cannot be stretched open

century, during the Maripgan period.

dle pendant inscribed with the phrase “La-

The crown taken from the north tomb

tomb in Bokcheon-dong, Busan features a

left and right. Therefore, they would have

dy’s belt,” and colored spindle—evidence

at Hwangnamdaechong is the earliest ex-

decoration that looks very much like real

been difficult to actually wear on the head.

that a woman had been buried within.

ample of the type decorated with trident-

tree branches, indicating how the design

However, a cap taken from the Tang period

Hence, a gold crown was placed inside a

like protrusions in a “出” shape. Three of

evolved on the Korean Peninsula. The tree

Zhanghuai Prince Tomb 章懷太子墓 in China

CONNECT WITH LEGACY

Silver Crown Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century Silver H. 17.0 cm South Mound of Hwangnamdaechong, Gyeongju hwangnam 2942

NMK 2014 SUMMER

Glass Ewer and Cups Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century (from left) H. 7.4 cm, H. 7.0 cm, H. 28.0 cm, H. 6.0 cm, H. 13.0 cm

GREAT TOMB AT HWANGNAM: A SILLA TIME CAPSULE

Gold Bracelet Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century Gold and Jade W. 2.1 cm, D. 7.2 cm North Mound of Hwangnamdaechong, Gyeongju Treasure No. 623 hwangbuk 66

Gold Crown Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century Gold and Jade H. 27.3 cm, D. 17.0 cm North Mound of Hwangnamdaechong, Gyeongju National Treasure No. 191 hwangbuk 1

A CHANCE ENCOUNTER WITH SILLA EXTRAVAGANCE Myriads of items were discovered during

woman’s tomb. No Silla queen during the

these along with two antler-shaped ex-

symbolized the king, who led the ceremo-

the excavation of Hwangnamdaechong, to

Maripgan period has been confirmed to

tensions are affixed with gold nails to the

nies for linking Heaven and Earth. The deer

include gold crowns, gilt-bronze crowns,

have been a ruler, making this crown a re-

crown band. Numerous comma-shaped

antler motif emerged as an important ele-

gold girdles, necklaces and other personal

vealing find.

green jade pendants hang from the “trunks”

ment decorating the hats of Siberian sha-

and their appendages like fruit on leaves

mans and can be linked to its use in Silla.

effects; saddlery decorated with silkworm

A gold crown was found in Geum-

patterns, metal utensils, glass utensils, and

nyeongchong , 金鈴塚

Gold Bell Tomb in

of gold. These decorations add a sense of

The gold crown from the Hwangnamdae-

various pottery pieces. They demonstrate

Gyeongju, which was most likely the rest-

glamor and mystery that exemplifies the

chong north tomb was designated National

Silla culture at its most extravagant. The

ing place of a prince, not a king. Many oth-

unique aesthetic of Silla. The gold crowns

Treasure No. 191 in December 1978 and is

person buried here was undoubtedly a

er personal adornments and a figurine of a

are very fragile, as they were crafted from

now a very important exhibit in the Silla

king, given the massive size of the tomb,

man on a horse were also unearthed. This

gold leaf, and so were probably not meant

Room, part of the Prehistory and Ancient

the gold crowns, and the luxurious adorn-

means that the right to wear a gold crown

to be worn on everyday occasions. Perhaps

History Gallery at the National Museum of

ments that were put inside. These articles

was not limited to kings in Silla.

their use was reserved for important state

Korea.

suggest that the tomb was built in the 5th

The gold crowns excavated from the

ceremonies or exclusively for burial.

The caps and gold crown ornament

north tomb at Hwangnamdaechong as

The decorations on the gold crowns are

exhumed from tombs are seen to symbol-

A gilt-bronze crown and sword with a

well as from Cheonmachong , Geum-

thought to symbolize a sacred “world tree”

ize the authority of specific occupants of

decorated ring pommel were unearthed in

nyeongchong, and

Seobongchong, 瑞鳳塚

and deer. The same motifs that are found

those tombs. The caps are of the style worn

the tomb to the south of Hwangnamdae-

Auspicious Phoenix Tomb, indicate a buri-

on Scythian crowns from several centuries

by Silla people and have been adorned

chong, indicating that the deceased was a

al practice unique to Silla, where by the

prior, suggest the origin of the Silla crown

with special ornaments. Made by con-

man. On the other hand, the north tomb

upper part of the crown was tied over the

design. Moreover, an earlier gilt-bronze

necting thin gold sheets, these headgear

contents included a gold crown, silver gir-

face of the deceased.

crown that was excavated from an old

are small and cannot be stretched open

century, during the Maripgan period.

dle pendant inscribed with the phrase “La-

The crown taken from the north tomb

tomb in Bokcheon-dong, Busan features a

left and right. Therefore, they would have

dy’s belt,” and colored spindle—evidence

at Hwangnamdaechong is the earliest ex-

decoration that looks very much like real

been difficult to actually wear on the head.

that a woman had been buried within.

ample of the type decorated with trident-

tree branches, indicating how the design

However, a cap taken from the Tang period

Hence, a gold crown was placed inside a

like protrusions in a “出” shape. Three of

evolved on the Korean Peninsula. The tree

Zhanghuai Prince Tomb 章懷太子墓 in China

CONNECT WITH LEGACY

NMK 2014 SUMMER

has fabric attached to lower brim and was

namdaechong, and the Samguksagi, 三國史記

pieces. These items, too, are believed to

secured to the wearer’s head with a string

History of the Three Kingdoms, says that the

have shown the authority of the king or

that tied under the chin. This cap from

different materials were used to make the

royal family member for which they were

Silla is presumed to have been outfitted

girdles, depending on the status of the in-

intended. The inclusion of everyday items

the same way. The crown ornament pro-

dividual wearer. The gold for either girdles

on the girdles reflects the practice of the

duces the look of a bird with wings spread

or crowns was a symbol of the royal family,

northern nomadic tribes, who kept many

in flight or a tree with branches. A Chinese

and gold girdles were removed from both

of the things that they needed on their

text records that Goguryeo caps have bird

the north and south tombs of Hwangnam-

persons. The leather or silk pieces once

feathers stuck in them. Thus, representing

daechong. This fact indicates the social

attached to the ornaments on the gold

the status of Silla kings or other royal fam-

standing of the occupants.

girdles from Hwangnamdaechong rotted

Attached on the leather or silk girdles

away long ago, but the luxuriousness of

were ornaments etched with various pat-

the adornments and pendants indicate

Various girdles made of gold, silver and

terns. Rings and ornaments are also on

that the deceased had been dressed in

gilt-bronze were unearthed from Hwang-

the girdle ends, while various charms

some kind of gold-colored skirt.

ily members with a bird motif was probably borrowed from Goguryeo practice.

GREAT TOMB AT HWANGNAM: A SILLA TIME CAPSULE

hang down such as a whetstone, pair of

Old Tomb in Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju

tweezers, small knife, medicine case, incense pouch, fish figure and curved jade

INDICATIONS OF INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGES

Gold Crown Ornament Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century Gold H. 40.6 cm South Mound of Hwangnamdaechong, Gyeongju Treasure No. 630

Various artifacts taken from Hwangnam-

articles found their way to the Japanese

as Buddhist temples with gold. The Nihon

daechong indicate that Silla had exchanges

islands as well, making Silla an important

shoki, 日本書紀 Chronicles of Japan, published

of some kind with Goguryeo and various

link in the overall trade route. Silla tumuli

in the 8th century, has a passage that reads

other regions that are now in China, Eu-

from the Maripgan period have yielded

“Silla is a kingdom of glittering gold,” indi-

rope, West Asia, and Japan. Goguryeo ex-

glass articles, gold bracelets with jade inlay

cating the presence of gold in the world of

erted direct and indirect influences on Silla

and other items that were carried over the

the living as well as that of the dead. The

from early on, as evidenced by the bronze

Silk Road from West Asia and Europe to

gold-related practices that began in the

lidded box unearthed from the Houchong

Silla. Roman glass, produced around the

Maripgan period were manifested in vari-

壺衧塚

ous later periods of the Silla kingdom.

in Gyeongju that bears the inscription

Mediterranean countries, was considered

“King Hotae of the Land of Gwanggaeto. ”

to be more precious than gold. For exam-

Hwangnamdaechong gave up myriads

廣開土地好太王

Bronze vessels excavated from

ple, the phoenix head-shaped glass bottle

of luxurious artifacts, starting with gold

Hwangnamdaechong do not contain such

taken from the Hwangnamdaechong south

crowns, glassware, metal-ware, and horse

a specific reference, but many show close

tomb shows that gold was used to repair its

trappings, but the precise identity of the

ties with the northern kingdom. The drop-

damaged handle. Items that were produced

tomb occupant was never revealed. That’s

let-shaped gold earrings with pendants,

in distant realms and transported over the

why the largest tumulus in Hwangnam-

boat-shaped gilt-bronze shoes with thick

Silk Road all the way to Silla were of the

dong was simply named “Great Tomb at

spikes attached on thin soles, and caps

highest order of importance, like gold, and

Hwangnam.” In fact, the occupants of most

shaped like bird feathers were either made

they have only be found in the tombs of

Maripgan tumuli in Gyeongju are un-

in Goguryeo and sent to Silla or were made

kings and royal family members.

known. The sheer scale of Hwangnamdae-

by Silla craftsmen who were influenced by

The culture that gave rise to the wood-

chong makes this the greatest monument

Goguryeo styles. The presence of so many

en-framed chamber tomb covered with a

from the period, and it provides a look at

Goguryeo artifacts in Silla tombs shows

mound of earth and stone and the luxuri-

Silla burial practices, gold usage, and the

that the two states had close ties within the

ous articles inside changed at the end of

active East-West exchanges over the Silk

political context of East Asia.

the Maripgan period. The emphasis on

Road that occurred at that time. As such,

At this time, Silla also had trade ex-

burying gold articles with deceased kings

this is a precious time capsule related to

changes with states in Europe and West

was replaced by the practice of decorat-

Silla, a kingdom for which extant written

Asia via the Silk Road. Some of these

ing the palaces of living monarchs as well

records are scant.

CONNECT WITH LEGACY

NMK 2014 SUMMER

has fabric attached to lower brim and was

namdaechong, and the Samguksagi, 三國史記

pieces. These items, too, are believed to

secured to the wearer’s head with a string

History of the Three Kingdoms, says that the

have shown the authority of the king or

that tied under the chin. This cap from

different materials were used to make the

royal family member for which they were

Silla is presumed to have been outfitted

girdles, depending on the status of the in-

intended. The inclusion of everyday items

the same way. The crown ornament pro-

dividual wearer. The gold for either girdles

on the girdles reflects the practice of the

duces the look of a bird with wings spread

or crowns was a symbol of the royal family,

northern nomadic tribes, who kept many

in flight or a tree with branches. A Chinese

and gold girdles were removed from both

of the things that they needed on their

text records that Goguryeo caps have bird

the north and south tombs of Hwangnam-

persons. The leather or silk pieces once

feathers stuck in them. Thus, representing

daechong. This fact indicates the social

attached to the ornaments on the gold

the status of Silla kings or other royal fam-

standing of the occupants.

girdles from Hwangnamdaechong rotted

Attached on the leather or silk girdles

away long ago, but the luxuriousness of

were ornaments etched with various pat-

the adornments and pendants indicate

Various girdles made of gold, silver and

terns. Rings and ornaments are also on

that the deceased had been dressed in

gilt-bronze were unearthed from Hwang-

the girdle ends, while various charms

some kind of gold-colored skirt.

ily members with a bird motif was probably borrowed from Goguryeo practice.

GREAT TOMB AT HWANGNAM: A SILLA TIME CAPSULE

hang down such as a whetstone, pair of

Old Tomb in Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju

tweezers, small knife, medicine case, incense pouch, fish figure and curved jade

INDICATIONS OF INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGES

Gold Crown Ornament Three Kingdoms Period, 5th Century Gold H. 40.6 cm South Mound of Hwangnamdaechong, Gyeongju Treasure No. 630

Various artifacts taken from Hwangnam-

articles found their way to the Japanese

as Buddhist temples with gold. The Nihon

daechong indicate that Silla had exchanges

islands as well, making Silla an important

shoki, 日本書紀 Chronicles of Japan, published

of some kind with Goguryeo and various

link in the overall trade route. Silla tumuli

in the 8th century, has a passage that reads

other regions that are now in China, Eu-

from the Maripgan period have yielded

“Silla is a kingdom of glittering gold,” indi-

rope, West Asia, and Japan. Goguryeo ex-

glass articles, gold bracelets with jade inlay

cating the presence of gold in the world of

erted direct and indirect influences on Silla

and other items that were carried over the

the living as well as that of the dead. The

from early on, as evidenced by the bronze

Silk Road from West Asia and Europe to

gold-related practices that began in the

lidded box unearthed from the Houchong

Silla. Roman glass, produced around the

Maripgan period were manifested in vari-

壺衧塚

ous later periods of the Silla kingdom.

in Gyeongju that bears the inscription

Mediterranean countries, was considered

“King Hotae of the Land of Gwanggaeto. ”

to be more precious than gold. For exam-

Hwangnamdaechong gave up myriads

廣開土地好太王

Bronze vessels excavated from

ple, the phoenix head-shaped glass bottle

of luxurious artifacts, starting with gold

Hwangnamdaechong do not contain such

taken from the Hwangnamdaechong south

crowns, glassware, metal-ware, and horse

a specific reference, but many show close

tomb shows that gold was used to repair its

trappings, but the precise identity of the

ties with the northern kingdom. The drop-

damaged handle. Items that were produced

tomb occupant was never revealed. That’s

let-shaped gold earrings with pendants,

in distant realms and transported over the

why the largest tumulus in Hwangnam-

boat-shaped gilt-bronze shoes with thick

Silk Road all the way to Silla were of the

dong was simply named “Great Tomb at

spikes attached on thin soles, and caps

highest order of importance, like gold, and

Hwangnam.” In fact, the occupants of most

shaped like bird feathers were either made

they have only be found in the tombs of

Maripgan tumuli in Gyeongju are un-

in Goguryeo and sent to Silla or were made

kings and royal family members.

known. The sheer scale of Hwangnamdae-

by Silla craftsmen who were influenced by

The culture that gave rise to the wood-

chong makes this the greatest monument

Goguryeo styles. The presence of so many

en-framed chamber tomb covered with a

from the period, and it provides a look at

Goguryeo artifacts in Silla tombs shows

mound of earth and stone and the luxuri-

Silla burial practices, gold usage, and the

that the two states had close ties within the

ous articles inside changed at the end of

active East-West exchanges over the Silk

political context of East Asia.

the Maripgan period. The emphasis on

Road that occurred at that time. As such,

At this time, Silla also had trade ex-

burying gold articles with deceased kings

this is a precious time capsule related to

changes with states in Europe and West

was replaced by the practice of decorat-

Silla, a kingdom for which extant written

Asia via the Silk Road. Some of these

ing the palaces of living monarchs as well

records are scant.

CONNECT WITH LEGACY

CURATOR TALK

NMK 2014 SUMMER

Baegun gyegi (Detail) Heo Mok (1595–1682) Joseon Dynasty, 17th Century duk 4022

HEO MOK, JOSEON SCHOLAR & IDEALIST BY PARK SUNGWON, ASSOCIATE CURATOR OF THE ASIA DEPARTMENT

HEO MOK 許穆, 1595‒1682 WAS A LEADING SCHOLAR IN 17TH CEN-

eo mok had a staunchly upright character and

cess, Heo took on an ambitious project to put in order the diver-

would neither compromise his beliefs nor follow

gent rules of propriety advocated by various schools of Confucian

the current of changing times. The Silhak (Practi-

thought. At the same time, he completed several important works

cal Learning) scholar Yi

Ik 李瀷, 1681‒1763

wrote the

including a full account of the Manchu Invasion of 1636 and a

epitaph on Heo Mok’s gravestone: “He was not partial to power-

revised history of Joseon. Heo Mok was the foremost scholar of

weakening.” 不阿權柄守正而

his day in the dialectical interpretation of Neo-Confucianism, and

Chief State Councilor Yi Wonik 李元翼, 1547‒1634 recognized Heo’s

was deeply knowledgeable of Taoist and Buddhist teachings. He

upstanding character and disposition early on, and agreed to let

was also well versed in astronomy, natural phenomena, geogra-

his own granddaughter marry him.

phy, and history.

holders and embraced rectitude without 不橈

His unyielding temperament is well illustrated in 1626, when

Joseon scholars shared a common aspiration: to become gov-

King Injo 仁祖, r. 1623‒1649 wanted to elevate his birthfather posthu-

ernment officials and assist the ruler in practicing proper state-

mously to the status of king. Heo Mok told Bak Jigye, 朴知誡, 1573‒1635

craft, and they were proud of their abilities to use their erudition

a leading supporter of the King’s plan, “If you accommodate His

to offer the right way to realize the ideal government. However,

AN AD-

Majesty’s wishes you will disrupt propriety.” Heo, who was a stu-

political extraction came to be centered on factions tied to dif-

HERENT OF THE YI HWANG 李滉, 1501‒1570 SCHOOL. HEO WAS ALSO

dent leader at the Royal Academy Seonggyungwan, 成均館 then had

ferent Confucian schools, each with its own interpretation of the

A LEADING POLITICAL FIGURE AT THE HEAD OF THE NAMIN, 南人

Bak’s name removed from the school register. For this Heo Mok

classics and Confucian philosophy and disputes often erupted

SOUTHERNERS FACTION, WHICH WOULD BECOME VERY IN-

was banned from sitting for the civil examination.

among these groups.

TURY JOSEON AND A DISCIPLE OF JEONG

GU, 鄭逑, 1543‒1620

HEO MOK, JOSEON SCHOLAR & IDEALIST

FLUENTIAL AT COURT. HE WAS AN AVID NEO-CONFUCIAN WHO

Even after the ban was subsequently lifted, Heo Mok did not

Heo Mok became fully active politically in the mid-17th cen-

SOUGHT TO REALIZE THE IDEAL STATE GOVERNED BY LEARNED

take the examination and instead sojourned in the countryside

tury, when the factional fighting had reached a feverish pitch. This

SCHOLARS AND BASED ON CONFUCIAN PHILOSOPHY, AND HE

and befriended nature. He met with local scholars and discussed

respected scholar who had rusticated himself in the countryside

WAS RENOWNED AS A WRITER AND POET. HIS UNIQUE CALLI-

matters of scholarship, associating with others who had become

came into the spotlight for his role in the “disputes over propri-

GRAPHIC STYLE WAS ALSO INFLUENTIAL.

recluses and were unwilling to tolerate differing views. In the pro-

ety,” 禮訟論爭 regarding the length of the mourning period at the death

CONNECT WITH LEGACY

CURATOR TALK

NMK 2014 SUMMER

Baegun gyegi (Detail) Heo Mok (1595–1682) Joseon Dynasty, 17th Century duk 4022

HEO MOK, JOSEON SCHOLAR & IDEALIST BY PARK SUNGWON, ASSOCIATE CURATOR OF THE ASIA DEPARTMENT

HEO MOK 許穆, 1595‒1682 WAS A LEADING SCHOLAR IN 17TH CEN-

eo mok had a staunchly upright character and

cess, Heo took on an ambitious project to put in order the diver-

would neither compromise his beliefs nor follow

gent rules of propriety advocated by various schools of Confucian

the current of changing times. The Silhak (Practi-

thought. At the same time, he completed several important works

cal Learning) scholar Yi

Ik 李瀷, 1681‒1763

wrote the

including a full account of the Manchu Invasion of 1636 and a

epitaph on Heo Mok’s gravestone: “He was not partial to power-

revised history of Joseon. Heo Mok was the foremost scholar of

weakening.” 不阿權柄守正而

his day in the dialectical interpretation of Neo-Confucianism, and

Chief State Councilor Yi Wonik 李元翼, 1547‒1634 recognized Heo’s

was deeply knowledgeable of Taoist and Buddhist teachings. He

upstanding character and disposition early on, and agreed to let

was also well versed in astronomy, natural phenomena, geogra-

his own granddaughter marry him.

phy, and history.

holders and embraced rectitude without 不橈

His unyielding temperament is well illustrated in 1626, when

Joseon scholars shared a common aspiration: to become gov-

King Injo 仁祖, r. 1623‒1649 wanted to elevate his birthfather posthu-

ernment officials and assist the ruler in practicing proper state-

mously to the status of king. Heo Mok told Bak Jigye, 朴知誡, 1573‒1635

craft, and they were proud of their abilities to use their erudition

a leading supporter of the King’s plan, “If you accommodate His

to offer the right way to realize the ideal government. However,

AN AD-

Majesty’s wishes you will disrupt propriety.” Heo, who was a stu-

political extraction came to be centered on factions tied to dif-

HERENT OF THE YI HWANG 李滉, 1501‒1570 SCHOOL. HEO WAS ALSO

dent leader at the Royal Academy Seonggyungwan, 成均館 then had

ferent Confucian schools, each with its own interpretation of the

A LEADING POLITICAL FIGURE AT THE HEAD OF THE NAMIN, 南人

Bak’s name removed from the school register. For this Heo Mok

classics and Confucian philosophy and disputes often erupted

SOUTHERNERS FACTION, WHICH WOULD BECOME VERY IN-

was banned from sitting for the civil examination.

among these groups.

TURY JOSEON AND A DISCIPLE OF JEONG

GU, 鄭逑, 1543‒1620

HEO MOK, JOSEON SCHOLAR & IDEALIST

FLUENTIAL AT COURT. HE WAS AN AVID NEO-CONFUCIAN WHO

Even after the ban was subsequently lifted, Heo Mok did not

Heo Mok became fully active politically in the mid-17th cen-

SOUGHT TO REALIZE THE IDEAL STATE GOVERNED BY LEARNED

take the examination and instead sojourned in the countryside

tury, when the factional fighting had reached a feverish pitch. This

SCHOLARS AND BASED ON CONFUCIAN PHILOSOPHY, AND HE

and befriended nature. He met with local scholars and discussed

respected scholar who had rusticated himself in the countryside

WAS RENOWNED AS A WRITER AND POET. HIS UNIQUE CALLI-

matters of scholarship, associating with others who had become

came into the spotlight for his role in the “disputes over propri-

GRAPHIC STYLE WAS ALSO INFLUENTIAL.

recluses and were unwilling to tolerate differing views. In the pro-

ety,” 禮訟論爭 regarding the length of the mourning period at the death

CONNECT WITH LEGACY

NMK 2014 SUMMER

Heo Mok’s Seal Script Engravings

HEO MOK, JOSEON SCHOLAR & IDEALIST

vail, as did the Seokbong style from mid-Joseon on. Song Siyeol’s

some relief. The inscribed text is called East Sea Hymn, a sup-

calligraphy was in this vein.

plication to the Dragon King and various other gods of the sea.

On the other hand, Heo Mok pondered the harsh reality Joseon

Thereafter, the sea calmed, and the local people praised Heo Mok

faced in the aftermath of devastating war, and he felt that new so-

as a miracle worker, but he saw himself as a Confucian scholar

lutions had to be found by returning to the original philosophical

armed with the theoretical basis for refuting sorcery.

thought of Confucius and Mencius. As he poured over the early

Heo Mok was thoroughly knowledgeable of astronomy,

Confucian texts, he also extensively studied the ancient character

geography, geomancy, and other national phenomena, which he

writing systems practiced in the Xia, Yin (or Shang), and Zhou and

applied to find a practical solution to a larger problem. This stele

came up with his own style. This is why his works in seal script are

symbolized Heo’s resolution to re-create in Cheokju, in 17th cen-

appraised so highly.

tury Joseon, the administrative record of the legendary sage ruler

Heo Mok’s philosophical thought and theory are reflected in

Yu 禹 of the Xia, who “transformed the mountains and tamed the

the way he writes, and the seal script used in ancient texts before

rivers,” 治山治水 thereby rescuing the people from incessant flood-

the first Qin Emperor’s infamous “burning of books and burying

ing. In other words, he wished that the Joseon ruler would served

of scholars” 焚書坑儒 campaign between 213 and 210 BCE. Seal script

as a model for the world in the same way that Yu had. Regardless

marks his signature style. His brushstrokes exude the running feel,

of Heo’s intentions, the common people believed that his stele

somewhere between the semi-cursive and the cursive, and the

inscription had moved the gods.

sides of the strokes appear serrated. Heo’s Cheokjudonghaebi, 陟州東海碑

The sage-ruler was seen as duty-bound to ensure the people

East Sea Stele inscription is a classic example of his unique seal

lived happily and without deprivation. After his rustication, he

script style. Many differences can be seen between this work and

wrote in seal script as a way to pray for Joseon’s transformation

the small seal

script 小篆

frequently found on other steles after the

Qin 秦, 221‒206 BCE unified the various scripts in use around China.

into becoming an idealized state that symbolized the best government during the Three Dynasties (Xia, Yin, and Zhou).

For political reasons, Heo Mok was demoted to magistrate of

Heo Mok’s calligraphic style was inspired by the scripts of an-

Cheokju, 陟州 now Samcheok in Gangwon-do, in 1660. Local resi-

cient China, for he wanted to manifest in his writing the spiritual

of the queen dowagers. His official career advanced and then was

The literary works become complete entities unto themselves and

dents along the coast had been suffering from frequent tsunamis,

world of an ideal state. Heo clearly believed that a man’s calligra-

set back repeatedly as he stood on the front lines of the controversy.

come alive as artworks.

so in 1662 Heo had this stele erected in an attempt to provide

phy was linked to his thought and his character.

Baegun gyegi (White Cloud Valley Record) Heo Mok (1595 –1682) Joseon Dynasty, 17th Century duk 4022

Calligraphy of Song Siyeol Song Siyeol (1607–1689) Joseon Dynasty, 17th Century duk 5279

He bolstered the position of the Namin as their leading theoreti-

Sometimes, handwriting may even resemble the writer’s life,

cian, rising steadily in the bureaucracy, from Inspector-General to

and interestingly, that is the case with Heo Mok’s. His thin, sharp

Minister of Personnel and then Right State Councilor.

strokes depict a rugged individualism. The “curiously” unique

Heo Mok of the Namin took on the Seoin (Westerners faction),

calligraphic style of Heo Mok attracted as much attention as his

the leading faction in Joseon at that time. However, when he per-

political stance. The people who revered Heo Mok would imitate

ceived that the situation was wrong, he would stand firm on his

his style of brushing, while those with differing political views

principles, even taking issue with fellow Namin. He was candid

would disparage them as being eccentric.

with the King

Sukjong 肅宗, 1661‒1720

himself in an effort to rectify

Heo Mok’s calligraphy was both praised and castigated in his

things. As his recommendations were not heeded, he promptly

day while being contrasted with the style of the leading conser-

retired to the countryside. Thereafter, the Namin went down the

vatives of his day, Song Siyeol 宋時烈, 1607‒1689 and Song Jungil. 宋浚吉,

path of political self-destruction. Heo Mok, as their leader, as-

1606‒1672

sumed responsibility for their demise and spend his last years in

Seokbong style of Han Ho, 韓濩, 1543‒1605 one of the most influential

seclusion. Yet, he continued to present memorials to the throne

calligraphers in all of Joseon. Remarkably, the differing ways in

until his death.

which these two men wrote Classical Chinese were related to their

Handwriting is said to reveal certain aspects of the writer’s

Their calligraphy was powerful and manly, based on the

Neo-Confucian learning.

character traits. Can Heo Mok’s staunch uprightness be seen in his

Joseon was founded upon the ideology of the Southern Song

calligraphy? Traditionally, people saw in calligraphy a beauty that

Neo-Confucian Zhu Xi, 朱熹, 1130‒1200 and this school remained the

extended beyond mere aesthetics to include erudition and refine-

mainstream of the Neo-Confucian philosophy practiced in Joseon.

ment of character. That is why calligraphy was a scholars’ art form

It was the spiritual foundation for the royal family and the conser-

that stood apart from other types of art. In addition, the calligraphic

vative elite. The Songxue calligraphy style 松雪體 of Zhao Mengfu,

style added significance to the individual’s own poems or prose

趙孟頫, 1254‒1322

as well as his transcriptions of famous passages from the classics.

ings of the rationalist Master Zhu, and this style continued to pre-

was introduced in late Goryeo along with the teach-