• Korean Journal of Heritage: History & Science
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• v.53 no.1
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• pp.150-167
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• 2020

The purpose of this paper is to share the status and introduce a scientific analysis of the GeumguJagi (gilt-silver overlay porcelain, 金釦瓷器) excavated from Seongneung (石陵). This analysis aimed to highlight the GeumguJagi excavated from the Royal Tombs of Goryeo with a clear lower year (1237) and to aid research into the GeumguJagi. In 2001, the National Institute of Cultural Heritage excavated and investigated Seongneung in Heejong (熙宗). Various artifacts such as celadon, gold, bronze, and iron products were collected from the chambers inside of the tomb. There were a total of 160 celadon items including bowls, dishes, glasses, and saucers. Of those, there were 58 celadon items (including fragments) with metal frames on the openings. These consisted of bowls, plates, lids, and saucers. Until recently, in various exhibitions and papers, only one GeumguJagi was known to have been excavated from Seongneung, which was a . However, the survey identified a number of further GeumguJagis. It had been understood from inherited and excavated products that the materials used for ornaments were restricted to high-quality celadon. However, this study confirmed that the excavation of Seongneung demonstrated the use of various other materials for different models and qualities of GeumguJagis. It can be said that it is characteristic that various models and quality are confirmed together through the excavation of Seongneung. A scientific analysis was carried out that selected 12 of 58 products excavated from Seongneung. Results showed that the main component used for Geumgu ornaments was tin (Sn), and trace amounts of copper (Cu) and lead (Pb) were also commonly identified. When analyzing the material used to affix the metal fittings, this was found to be glue (膠) made from animal skins, muscle, and bones. This pattern matches that of the GeumguJagi excavated from Paju Hyeeumwonji, and the reason for this could be assumed on the basis of the contents of the 『Cheongonggaemul (天工開物)』 written by Song Ongsung (宋應星) during the Ming Dynasty. At that time, metals such as tin and copper would have been difficult to obtain. 『Xuānhwafengshi Gaolitujing (宣和奉使高麗圖經)』 shows that the use of metal was limited to certain classes; thus, the use of the GeumguJagi seems to have been centered around the royal family.