The Artistic Spirit of the Last Metal Sculptor Father and Son of Joseon

National Intangible Heritage Center 'Engraving the Pulse with Nails'
Highlighting the Artistic World of the Late Kim Jeongseop and Kim Cheolju Father and Son

Eunje Odong Sanggam Incense Burner

An exhibition reflecting on the artistic worlds of the late master metal engravers Kim Jeongseop (1899?1988) and Kim Cheolju (1933?2015) will be held. The National Intangible Heritage Center will host "Engraving the Pulse with Nails" from the 28th of this month to August 21st in the permanent exhibition hall 1 on the first floor of Yeollinmaru.

Kim Jeongseop was the last metal engraver of the Joseon Dynasty. He was the first to be named as a metal engraver when the craft was designated as a National Intangible Cultural Property in 1970. His son, Kim Cheolju, inherited his father's skills intact and continued the tradition. A metal engraver is an artisan who decorates by hammering or carving patterns onto metal surfaces. The traditional engraving techniques passed down through two generations achieved a high level of skill and artistry. Their pioneering use of colored aluminum plates instead of expensive silver also received significant attention.

Tools of a Woodcarver

The exhibition showcases about fifty works by the two masters. It recreates the workshop from the 1970s to 1980s where father and son worked together, introducing engraving tools and materials in an easy-to-understand way. Additionally, it displays silver paulownia inlay incense burners, sarira cases, and other items made using various techniques, conveying the life and mindset of a metal engraver. Admission is free. For more details, please refer to the National Intangible Heritage Center website.