Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a magnificent Korean mother-of-pearl lacquer cabinet (Najeon Chilgi), traditional two-tiered design known as an Ichang Nong. Standing 83.3cm high, it features intricate iridescent abalone shell inlays depicting classic auspicious symbols including cranes, turtles, and pine trees against a deep black lacquer ground.
Story
Korean Najeon Chilgi craftsmanship dates back over a thousand years to the Goryeo Dynasty, where shell-inlaid treasures were reserved for royalty. Each glowing panel uses paper-thin slices of abalone shell meticulously fitted by hand into natural lacquer. The crane and turtle motifs represent long life and eternal harmony.
Maker / Origin
Master artisans spend months crafting a single Najeon Chilgi cabinet. The process involves harvesting mother-of-pearl shell, slicing it down to fractions of a millimeter, cutting intricate designs using micro-chisels, and embedding them into dozens of hand-applied layers of sap-based ottchil lacquer.
Condition & Value
The cabinet appears in good overall condition with vibrant shell inlay intact. Minor lacquer scuffs, edge wear, and light patination on the brass turtle fittings are present, which is expected for age and does not severely diminish value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.