Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A hand-carved wooden bolo tie featuring the 'Yangban' (aristocrat) character from the traditional Korean Hahoe Byeolsingut Talnori mask dance. The slide is crafted from wood with a rich, stained patina and features traditional calligraphy on the reverse.
Story
Hahoe masks are national treasures of Korea, used for centuries in village rituals to satirize the ruling class. This Yangban character represents a smiling aristocrat whose expression changes from joy to anger depending on the angle.
Maker / Origin
The inscription on the back refers to 'Hahoe-dong Tal-bang' (Hahoe Village Mask Workshop) and likely the name of the artisan, Kim Dong-pyo, a renowned master who dedicated his life to reviving the ancient art of mask carving in Andong.
Condition & Value
The wooden slide appears in excellent condition with a well-preserved patina. The braided cord shows minor fuzzing consistent with age, and the wooden tips are intact. Condition is excellent for a vintage souvenir piece. Value is driven by the popularity of Hahoe folk art and the specific workshop mark.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.