Mother of Pearl Chest: Curved Body, Geometric Abalone Strip Composition
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Those who choose this piece are often drawn to craftsmanship in which colour and geometry are held together by careful judgement and an appreciation of form.
“Across the rounded surface, narrow pieces of shell turn and meet, catching the light in a changing pattern of colour.”
Created by Korean mother-of-pearl artist Park In-ho, this jewellery chest brings together a distinctive curved silhouette and a finely ordered arrangement of abalone shell. Small strips in shades of pink, blue, green, violet and silver are placed in alternating horizontal and vertical directions, forming a geometric composition that continues across the lid, sides and base.
The shape makes this arrangement particularly demanding. Unlike a conventional rectangular box, the chest has a broad, gently rounded lid, curved end panels and a shaped lower body. The shell pieces must follow these changing contours while preserving the proportions and alignment of the pattern. At the rounded ends, where the surface turns away from the viewer, even small differences in placement become noticeable.
The alternating directions of the strips give the design something of the rhythm of woven fabric. This measured geometry may also recall the ordered colour and pattern of Korean traditional decorative arts, although the composition is not a direct representation of a historical motif. Instead, Park allows the material and its arrangement to provide the visual interest.
The natural iridescence of abalone shell makes the surface particularly responsive to light. Cooler blue and green reflections emerge from certain angles, while pink and violet become more apparent from others. The colours change, but the geometric structure remains constant.
A fish-shaped metal clasp completes the front, accompanied by a key and a dark blue tassel. Opening the lid reveals a mirror and a red velvet-lined compartment with cushioned rows for rings and an open section for other small pieces of jewellery. The vivid interior offers a deliberate contrast to the cool, reflective surface outside.
What makes this work distinctive is the relationship between its geometry and its rounded form. The shellwork remains carefully ordered even as the surface curves in several directions. Through that combination, Park In-ho gives a familiar jewellery chest a character that reveals itself gradually, both in changing light and through handling.
Dimensions
- Length- 24cm (9.45 inch)
- Depth- 14.5cm (5.71 inch)
- Height- 12.5cm (4.92 inch)
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Artinko Products: Care and Authenticity
All information supplied through the Site is for informational purposes regarding the history and care of traditional Korean crafts. While we guarantee 100% authentic materials, Artinko is not responsible for damage caused by improper handling, such as using non-food-safe decorative items for dining or using harsh chemicals on delicate Mother-of-Pearl surfaces.
Section 13: Our Delivery Guarantee
Unlike standard templates, Artinko takes full responsibility for your order until it is safely in your hands. We understand the fragile nature of traditional Korean ceramics and lacquerware. In the rare event that an item is damaged or lost during transit, we will resend the item at no extra cost to you or issue a full refund immediately upon verification of the damage.
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14-Day Return Policy: Merchandise can be returned or exchanged within 14 days of receipt if the product has not been opened or used and remains in its original packaging.
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Exchanges: We only replace items if they are defective or damaged.
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