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The two rooms
depicted in this diorama reproduce the home of a Korean upper-class
family in the nineteenth century.
 Korea:
The Confucian Tradition
The scholar in his studio is studying a text of Mencius, a disciple
of Confucius, written in both Chinese and the Korean alphabet, hangul.
Educated Koreans had to be able to read Chinese as well as their
own language in order to study the classics. The scholar is seated
on a floor cushion at his low desk, surrounded by the material necessary
to his work, such as writing brushes and scrolls. The scholar's
attire, including the kat hat, marks his economic status, for only
the elite could afford the luxury of a life of study. This room
would have been heated by the ingenious ondol system of heated pipes
under the floor, which made sitting and sleeping on the floor comfortable
during the cold winters.
Museum
Artifacts and Education Volunteers
Education
Teaching Volunteers may be stationed in the Hall during your
visit. Students can ask questions about the dioramas and examine
Asian clothing and items of trade. |
Korea:
The Uniqueness
The wife of the scholar works in the inner room of the house. This
woman wears the hanbok, a traditional style of dress. While her
hanbok is decorated with the Chinese characters for good fortune,
long life, and happiness, the bright colors are traditionally Korean.
In the foreground of the diorama is a set of metal tongs heating
over coals, which this woman would use for ironing. Hanging on the
wall is a painting of a type traditionally found in the woman's
sanctum. Unlike the painting in the scholar's studio, this one is
brightly colored, with a folk motif of Mandarin ducks, a symbol
of marital happiness.
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