Hexafoil-Shaped Table with Mother-of-Pearl Inlay

late 1400s–early 1500s

Korea, Joseon dynasty

(1392–1910)

Medium

Inlaid abalone shells on black lacquer ground, applied with red lacquer on the interior

Measurements

42.5 x 26.4 x 20.6 cm (16 3/4 x 10 3/8 x 8 1/8 in.)

Credit Line

Sundry Art - Miscellaneous Fund 2026.4

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Location

Not on view

Did You Know?

The use of inlaid twisted brass wires in this mother-of-pearl lacquer table was first introduced in the twelfth century and is believed to have been employed in high-quality lacquerware through the end of the fifteenth century.

Description

This low table showcases intricate mother-of-pearl and twisted brass-wire inlay forming chrysanthemum scrolls and floral lattices against black lacquer. As one of the few surviving early Joseon lacquer works employing the rare brass-wire technique, it reflects refined craftsmanship made for elite patrons. Likely used in Buddhist offering ceremonies, it would have supported precious ritual objects such as rolls of sutras or miniature Buddhist statuary.