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Pottery
Weaving
Fabric Dyeing
Calligraphy, the art of brush writing, is a traditional art form in Korea. It has exerted a strong influence socially and culturally and is still highly respected today.
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Pottery-making
techniques were transmitted from China to Korea over 1,000 years ago.
The techniques flourished, thus producing an artistic tradition of which
they are justifiably proud. The subtle beauty and unique bluish-green
color of the celadon pottery of the Koryo Dynasty (918-1392) have made
it world famous. Korean artisans have developed a superbly controlled
glaze that is both beautiful and unique because it fully utilizes the
properties of Korea's rich clay. The highest praise is given to the color
of the glaze - a delicate kingfisher green celadon inlaid with a pictorial
under-glaze, called sanggamch'ongja. It occupies the central position
in Koryo celadons. The motifs and decorations are additional reasons for
its popularity among art lovers.
Since
ancient times, weaving fabric for home use was one of the most important
tasks of the Korean woman. From the Choson period, the weaving of hemp
or flax, ramie, cotton, muslin, and silk were prevalent. Today, the Korean
government encourages the preservation of traditional weaving and cloth-making
techniques by designating "human cultural assets" to those who pass their
skills to the younger generation.
While
Koreans have long favored white, the hanbok (traditional female dress)
has been made in a myriad of colors over the centuries. The colors used
in Korean clothing are derived from the five basic colors of East Asian
cosmology: red, blue, yellow, white, and black. They symbolize five cardinal
directions and elements that create all matter in the universe. Contrasting
colors are used to create different effects. Many of the old dyeing techniques
are still used to create traditional fabrics. Natural dyes made from flowers
or barks are often used.