Woodcraft and Lacquerware in Ancient Korea 6.6.3. A traditional three-story chest covered with thin sheets of ox horn. Wooden furniture designs in Korea developed as a result of the custom of sitting and sleeping on cushions and mats on the floor.
Korean furniture is characterized by simple, sensitive designs, compact forms, and practicality.
Choson woodcraftsmen were noted for the attention they paid to even the parts hidden from view and their ingenuity in blending practicality and beauty. Artisans sought to achieve pieces that were both sturdy and aesthetically pleasing. The use of glue and nails was avoided wherever possible by fitting parts into each other by ingenious methods. The grain and texture of the wood, which varies from one kind to another, was regarded as a major decorative element and was presented in a pleasing arrangement. The wood was polished with oil to maximize the natural effect of the grain and no paint was applied.