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Fine Antique Tall Korean Medicine Chest Yakchang Provenance

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A fine antique Korean medicine or apothecary chest from late Joseon Dynasty (circa 19th century). Known as Yakchang in Korean, this type of chest was used to sort and store herb medicines in its many small drawers. The prototype was originated in China, but this piece is distinctively Korean. The fine piece was made from Paulownia wood, which has an insect-repelling quality. Relatively tall, the Yakchang features a slightly overhanging and upturning pagoda plank top. The upper part has ten rows of smaller drawers, eight per row and eighty total. The lower part is centered with double doors with brass hinges and pull that open to a small storage space, which is surrounded by twelve larger drawers. Each drawer is fitted with yellow brass pulls and with two names of the herbs in gilt Hanja writings.
Examination of the construction and patina shows that this is an authentic antique piece that has seen extensive historical use. Provenance: Purchase from Lucky-Chosun Furniture, Seoul, Korea in 1986 and remains in an American collection until now. With an original invoice and also a freight invoice from Korea to Hongkong. There is also an insurance appraised by Sotheby's from 1997.
A tall medicine chest with similar configuration from a doctor's home in Yongin Folk Village is illustrated on plate 75 page 61 in the book "Korean Furniture and Culture" by Bokcha, Soon and Youngsoon.
To compare with another Medicine Chest, see illustration on page 47 in "Korean Antique Furniture and Accessories" by Mathieu Deprez.

More Information

Origin:	South Korea
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	wood, pine, brass
Condition:	Good. Fine condition with extensive patina from use, such as old marks, scratches, much accumulation in the drawers. Small historical gouge on top plank surface. Bumps and old chips on the edge of the side plank toward the back and bottom.
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Incollect Reference #:	705162

Dimensions

W.	40.25 in;	H.	50 in;	D.	12.125 in;
W.	102.24 cm;	H.	127 cm;	D.	30.8 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.