Antique Korean Elmwood Stacking Chest With Brass Fittings, Late Joseon Dynasty, Circa 1890–1910

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An authentic Korean Ich'ung Nong dating to the Late Joseon Dynasty, crafted of elm with figured elm panels, pine secondary … Read more An authentic Korean Ich'ung Nong dating to the Late Joseon Dynasty, crafted of elm with figured elm panels, pine secondary wood, and retaining its original white brass fittings. The refined proportions, richly figured wood, and exceptional metalwork have made Korean furniture increasingly sought after by collectors and interior designers.

The geometric frame-and-panel façade is enriched with finely pierced white brass corner mounts, strap hinges, lock escutcheons, and traditional bail pulls. The pale yellow (white) brass contrasts beautifully with the warm honey-brown elm. The upper section features four drawers above a double-door cupboard, mirrored by a second cupboard below. Both interiors retain their original paper lining, traditionally used to protect stored textiles.

Equally at home in traditional, modern organic, or collected interiors, this exceptional chest functions as both practical storage and a sculptural focal point.

COLLECTOR'S NOTE
The Ich'ung Nong is among the most recognizable forms of traditional Korean furniture. Unlike the larger one-piece jang cabinets, the nong was constructed in separate stackable sections, allowing for easier transport while providing flexible household storage. Furniture of this quality was produced for well-appointed Korean households during the closing years of the Joseon Dynasty. Constructed of elm with pine secondary wood and retaining its clean paper-lined interior, this example is distinguished by an extensive suite of traditional white brass fittings. The hardware closely resembles documented examples attributed to Korea's southern Gyeongsang-do Province, where elaborate white brass mountings became a distinctive regional characteristic during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

PLEASE NOTE: The styled interior image is a computer-generated rendering created for visual inspiration. For accurate color, condition, and detail, please refer to the accompanying photographs.

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