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Rare Korean Pyongyang Do Bandaji Chest Joseon Dynasty

Offered by: Tishu

Description
An antique Korean wood Bandaji circa mid-19th century of Joseon Dynasty. Relatively rare, this Bandaji was likely from the southern part of the Pyongyang province near Hwanghae province (in nowadays North Korea). A variation of the “Sung Sun I” style Bandaji (typically from the Pakchon area in Pyongan Do), the chest is distinctive with the finely pierced ironwork hardware with lace-like design that covers a large portion of the frontal surface. The lace like hardware, however, is not as densely punctuated in design like those made in Pakchon. The cutout is more fluid with scrolling pattern therefore has an airier feel to it.
Constructed in thick planks of tightly grained yellow pine and stained dark, the chest has exposed dove joints neatly done along the back edge and sits on flat bottom. The ironwork hardware showcases cut-out design of scrolling motifs surrounding the archaic form of Chinese character "Wealth" in rectangular seal form and "Double Happiness" in roundel. The rustic style nails that fasten the side brackets were roughly wrought by hand indicating a certain age. The interior is rather clean and unlined and fitted with a row of four small drawers with pulls.
Examining the piece, it is evident that it is in its original form and shows a nice patina incurred in its long life. It was probably taken from North to South Korean during the war and was sold on the antique market. Such story-telling piece presents with a strong sense of history and cultural importance.
For Bandaji in Sung Sun Style from Northern Peninsular of Korea, see the example illustrated on page 75 of "Korean Chests Treasures of the Yi Dynasty" by Wickman.
Another Bandaji from Pakchon is held in the collection of Minneapolis Musuem of Art, Accession Number2000.269.3.

More Information

Origin:	South Korea
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Pine and Iron
Condition:	Good. Antique condition with extensive patina from age and use throughout the surface, particularly concentrated on the top naturally, with small gouges, scratches, finish losses etc. No lock.
Creation Date:	19th century
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Incollect Reference #:	787904

Dimensions

W.	36 in;	H.	30 in;	D.	17 in;
W.	91.44 cm;	H.	76.2 cm;	D.	43.18 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.