Dragon for a funerary bier

20th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 233

As part of the zodiac, the five directions, and the cardinal elements, dragons are linked to the order of the universe. Dragon kkokdu (ornaments for funerary biers) are powerful, auspicious symbols thought to repel evil and are prominently featured on sangyeo (funerary biers). Intertwining yellow and blue dragons are often placed at the top. Pairs are made together—this example preserves the head and half the body of the yellow dragon, with the tail of the blue dragon crossing in front. Dragons are thought to protect and accompany the deceased on the journey to the burial site and then a heavenly afterlife.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

꼭두 일자용 대한민국
一字龍大韓民國
Title: Dragon for a funerary bier
Date: 20th century
Culture: Korea
Medium: Polychrome painted wood
Dimensions: Dragon: H. 7 in. (17.8 cm); W. 1 1/2 in (3.8 cm); L. 32 in. (81.3 cm)
Classification: Woodwork
Credit Line: Gift of the children of Lea R. Sneider, 2024
Object Number: 2024.301.3
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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