Cabinet
(late 19th century)
- Medium
- bamboo, Pine (Pinus sp.), copper alloy
- Measurements
- 168.2 × 70.0 × 55.8 cm (closed)
- Place/s of Execution
- Korea
- Inscription
- inscribed in inlay c.r: 富貴多男
- Accession Number
- 2022.787
- Department
- Asian Art
- Credit Line
- National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased with funds donated by Vivienne Fried, 2022 - Gallery location
- Level 1, NGV International
- About this work
-
With its geometric bamboo inlay and balanced form, this rare example of a large bamboo cabinet exemplifies the style and associated symbolism of furniture produced during the latter part of the Joseon dynasty. As a Neo-Confucian society, nineteenth-century Korea upheld the values of restraint, decorum and humility. These values were reflected in the aesthetic of understated and practical furniture design. However, symbolism and the spiritual connection with nature, integral to Buddhism, Daoism and shamanism, also influenced production. The cabinet is adorned with brass fittings in the shape of bats, a widely used motif representing happiness and luck. Auspicious Chinese characters also feature, wishing the owner good fortune and many children.