Base for Temple Object
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Object Label
The interiors of traditional Korean temples and palaces are elaborately decorated, with intricately carved wood furnishings covered in colorful paint. This pair of candlesticks most likely flanked a Buddhist altar, while the turtle originally served as the base for a drum or gong, or perhaps for a large representation of a Buddhist emblem. Alternatively, it is possible that these objects came from a palace interior, because their symbolism is not necessarily Buddhist. Dragons are a lucky emblem, associated with water and especially rain, which is why they are often shown flying through swirling clouds, while turtles represent long life.
Caption
Base for Temple Object, ca. 17th century. Wood, pigment, 9 13/16 × 25 3/8 × 10 1/4 in. (25.0 × 64.5 × 26.0 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of the Carroll Family Collection, 2019.45.1.
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Title
Base for Temple Object
Date
ca. 17th century
Dynasty
Joseon Dynasty
Geography
Place made: Korea
Medium
Wood, pigment
Classification
Dimensions
9 13/16 × 25 3/8 × 10 1/4 in. (25.0 × 64.5 × 26.0 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of the Carroll Family Collection
Accession Number
2019.45.1
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