Ruler
Painted ox horn was used to decorate a range of objects from large furniture to smaller everyday wares, such as boxes, mirror stands, and sewing implements. By the late Joseon, the ox horn decorative technique was fully developed. The horn would be cut into very thin sheets and then one side would be painted. Due to the near transparency of the sheet, the painting could be seen through to the other side. The painted side would then be adhered to the object using a lacquer-resin adhesive.
The ruler has six segments on each side with each segment painted with a different floral motif. One end has lost its bone veneer.
The ruler has six segments on each side with each segment painted with a different floral motif. One end has lost its bone veneer.
Artwork Details
- Hwagakja
- 포백자 조선
- 布帛尺 朝鮮
- Title: Ruler
- Period: Joseon dynasty (1392–1910)
- Date: late 19th–early 20th century
- Culture: Korea
- Medium: Wood, bone, painted ox horn; bamboo, black lacquer
- Dimensions: 10 1/4 x 3/4 in. (26 x 1.9 cm)
- Classification: Woodwork
- Credit Line: Gift of the children of Lea R. Sneider, 2024
- Object Number: 2024.301.9
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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