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19th century

Chest (Nong)

Artist/maker unknown

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This chest consists of two identical storage units. Each unit is made of pine, with a center door made from zelkova (a variety of elm that grows in southern Korea). The brass plate at the center of each door is a stylized representation of the magic pulloch'o fungus (a symbol of longevity). Cabinets like these were used by upper-class families to store items such as seasonal clothing for long periods of time.

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Artist/maker unknown, Chest (Nong), 19th century | Philadelphia Art Museum