ALL
pyrography
ICH Elements 2
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Nakhwajang (Pyrography)
National Intangible Cultural Heritage, Republic of Korea Nakhwajang refers to the art of decorating paper, wood, or leather by burning a drawing (typically a landscape or birds and flowers) on the surface with a heated iron. It is also used to refer to the masters of the art. The origins of pyrography in Korea can be found in a relevant entry (entitled "Nakhwa byeonjeungseol") in the 19th-century encyclopedia Oju yeonmun jangjeon sango compiled by the late-Joseon scholar Yi Gyu-gyeong (1788–1863). Since the early 19th century, the technique of pyrography has been transmitted mainly in the Imsil area of Jeollabuk-do Province. Korean pyrography is primarily based on traditional Korean painting. It borrows a range of "texture strokes" (junbeop) and other brush and ink techniques from ink wash painting. However, all these traditional expressive methods are executed with a heated iron rather than a brush. Proficiency in manipulating the heated iron is critical to the execution of nakhwajang.
South Korea -
Nakjukjang (Bamboo Pyrography)
National Intangible Cultural Heritage, Republic of Korea Nakjukjang refers to bamboo pyrography or artisan with such skill. During the reign of King Sunjo (r. 1800-1834), Park Chang-gyu engaged in the practice, and it was maintained until the colonial period. The practice requires lots of experience and speed. Applications of bamboo pyrography are arrow shafts, acupuncture needle cases, sword handles, folding screens, tobacco pipes, handheld folding fans (particularly thick bamboo pieces forming the first and last sticks), pencil cases, etc. Shapes of butterflies are often used in handheld folding fans, with shapes of bats sometimes used as well. The demand for objects containing bamboo pyrography has decreased noticeably. The skill has been designated as important intangible cultural heritage for protection.
South Korea