An artwork on Galleree from Cleveland Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Knife Sheath1100s
Made by rolling a flat piece of silver plate, this knife sheath is decorated on each side with oval panels, including two larger middle panels showing an image of rising dragons with ring-punched scales. The circular upper panels bear the image of seated phoenixes. The flat bottom is engraved with a pair of fish, symbolizing harmonious unity. The trefoil-shaped ring attached to the tip of the sheath allows a string to connect it as a pendant to a belt. In medieval Korea, a miniature sheath such as this was considered an important fashion item, especially for elite members of the ruling class.
This 12th-century silver-gilt knife sheath is meant to be a pendent to a belt as a luxury ornament.
Gilt silver (body) and brass (trefoil-shaped ring)
length: 21.7 cm (8 9/16 in.)
J.H. Wade Trust Fund
In the quiet corners of history, where the whispers of craftsmanship linger like soft echoes, lies a humble yet exquisite creation—a knife sheath crafted from a flat piece of silver plate. It is not just a mere accessory; it is a storyteller, bearing the weight of its time upon its delicate surface.
Imagine holding this sheath, the cool metal glinting in the light, each etched panel revealing tales of artistry and culture. On either side, the craftsmanship unfolds like an ancient scroll, adorned with oval panels that invite curiosity. At the heart of two larger middle panels, fierce dragons rise, their scales punctuated with precision, a testament to the beauty of nature intertwined with mythology. Each mythical creature mirrors the resilience and strength sought by those in the elite ruling class of medieval Korea.
Above, the delicate circular upper panels cradle the serene images of seated phoenixes—their graceful forms embodying rebirth and harmony. These mythical birds seem to perch quietly, like sentinels watching over the narratives etched into the metal. And on the flat, engraved bottom, a pair of fish dance—a symbol of harmonious unity, forever intertwined in a serene embrace.
Attached to the tip is a trefoil-shaped ring, a small yet significant touch that allows the sheath to dangle gracefully from a belt—a subtle but powerful nod to its status. Fashioned for those who commanded respect and power, this miniature sheath served not just as a utilitarian item but as an emblem of prestige and refinement, desired by the elite who roamed the kingdom.
This small piece of art, now a fragment of history, prompts us to reflect on the layers of significance contained within something that could easily be overlooked. It is a reminder of days gone by, of traditions that breathe life into metal, and of an era where even the simplest objects were imbued with honor and meaning. The knife sheath, resting quietly today, continues to resonate, inviting us to pause and ponder the stories that have shaped our shared past.
About the artist
Creating transformative experiences through art “for the benefit of all the people forever.”The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for the quality and breadth of its collection, which includes more than 66,500 artworks and spans 6,000 years of achievement in the arts. The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from the museum's Open Access data under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.Address: 11150 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, USA 44106
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