By Honorary Reporter Angelina Streltsova from Russia
Photos = National Museum of Korea, Angelina Streltsova

This lacquered box made with mother-of-pearl is from the Joseon Dynasty. (National Museum of Korea)

One of my favorite forms of traditional Korean art is najeonchilgi (lacquerware). Along with other Honorary Reporters, I was invited to a lacquerware craft experience at the National Museum of Korea in Seoul on July 8.

Najeonchilgi uses the technique of inlaying mother-of-pearl or nacre, thus its name literally means "mother-of-pearl lacquerware." 

In the beginning, we listened to a short lecture on the history and development of lacquerware art. Lacquerware techniques are believed to have grown popular during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392).

To make a lacquerware piece requires natural lacquer from the juice of the sumac tree and applying it to the surface to get a slick lacquer layer. Second, choose the desired pattern and inlay it with mother of pearl, later applying the topcoat. The final step is selective removal of the lacquer topcoat to reveal shimmering patterns.

Many objects can be decorated using this technique, ranging from hand mirrors to large sideboards. My personal favorite is a lacquered jewelry box. 

A variety of techniques can be used to inlay mother-of-pearl.

Among the techniques to inlay mother-of-pearl, one can choose according to the pattern desired. Because of limited time during the workshop, we skipped the first step and started to make our desired patterns. The teachers also helped us apply the final topcoat. 

I found the workshop interesting in that I learned about traditional lacquerware technique, but it was also a good experience since I made my own piece that will be a nice souvenir for my family or friends.

The lacquerware piece I made could make a great gift for family or friends. 

enny0611@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.