National Museum of Korea exhibits East Asian lacquerware

Korea’s Najeonchilgi. [Courtesy of The National Museum of Korea]

The National Museum of Korea held a joint exhibition titled Lacquerware of East Asia, featuring 46 masterpieces of lacquer from Korea, Japan, and China. The three East Asian countries have held such special exhibitions every two years since 2014.

The latest exhibition highlights the distinct characteristics of lacquerware pieces from the three countries: Korea’s Najeonchilgi, known for its radiant mother-of-pearl; Japanese lacquer maki-e, with its golden powder sprinklings; and Chinese lacquer decoration, which features intricate engravings akin to sculptures.

The exhibition runs until September 22nd, 2024.