Najeon Chilgi?
The ingredient made by cutting the inside of the shell thinly is called 'Jagae' in Korean. The technique of cutting or cutting this 'Jagae' into shape is called 'Najeon'.
"Najeon Chilgi" (lacquerware) refers to a product in which fine-grained wood is dried and processed to form a product, painted finely with lacquer, and then attached with a carefully shaped "Jagae."
Najeon Chilgi: Illuminating Artistry
In the dazzling glare of daylight or under the harsh beams of lamps, Najeon Chilgi, the traditional Korean art of mother-of-pearl inlay, reveals its luminous essence. Its shimmering surfaces against a dark backdrop evoke a sense of nobility and grace.
 Whether illuminated by the soft glow of candles or lanterns, its true value shines forth. The vibrant hues of mother-of-pearl, created through layers of light-refracting nacre within abalone shells, dance with an ethereal beauty, shifting in color with every angle.
While green turban shells were traditionally used for Najeon Chilgi in ancient China and Japan, Korea's abundant abalone shells, found along the southern coast and on Jeju Island, became the preferred material during the Goryeo and Joseon periods. Offering richer color variations and a mysterious play of light, abalone shells imbue Najeon Chilgi with a unique allure, boasting hues of blue and purple alongside the traditional green.
The Traditional Artisanal Journey of Najeon Chilgi
Korean ancestors held a deep reverence for the mother-of-pearl. While Najeon Chilgi flourished across China, Korea, and Japan in centuries past, its distinct characteristics have endured most prominently in Korea.
Historical records from the 11th century attest to Najeon Chilgi's status as a prestigious gift exchanged by the Goryeo court with foreign royals. Accounts from the Song Dynasty praise the meticulous craftsmanship of Goryeo's Najeon Chilgi as "precious," highlighting its exquisite detail and refinement. Surviving relics from the Goryeo Dynasty, including decorative boxes and Buddhist artifacts, showcase the unparalleled artistry of this period.
Throughout the Goryeo to Joseon Dynasty transition, state-run workshops continued to produce Najeon Chilgi, driving the evolution of both tradition and technique in Korea. This sustained patronage fostered the development of distinctive Korean styles and methods, solidifying Najeon Chilgi as a cornerstone of national craft.
Preserving Our Heritage: Najeon Chilgi
While Najeon Chilgi originated elsewhere, it found its true home and identity in Korea, where it was refined and perfected over generations. The influence of Goryeo's artistic innovations spread beyond borders, shaping the trajectory of Najeon Chilgi in neighboring regions.
Distinctive techniques such as the "cut-off" method, introduced by Goryeo artisans, revolutionized the art form, allowing for intricate geometric patterns and graceful curves. From the straight puncture patterns of late Goryeo to the fluid curves of early Joseon, Korean artisans imbued Najeon Chilgi with a sense of dynamism and sophistication.
In preserving these unique techniques and styles, Korea has cemented Najeon Chilgi as a national treasure, embodying the essence of Korean craftsmanship.
Exploring the Radiant Legacy and Artistry of Najeon Chilgi
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