ISSN : 1598-1142(Print)
ISSN : 2383-9066(Online)
ISSN : 2383-9066(Online)
Journal of architectural history Vol.33 No.6 pp.21-28
DOI : https://doi.org/10.7738/JAH.2024.33.6.021
DOI : https://doi.org/10.7738/JAH.2024.33.6.021
A Study on the Wall Ceiling Dancheong Style of Traditional Korean Architecture during the Joseon Dynasty - Focusing on the Lotus Patterns -
Abstract
This study examines the Banja Dancheong style of traditional Korean architecture, with a particular emphasis on the lotus pattern found among the Woomul Banja ceiling patterns. The genesis of Korean ceiling decoration motifs can be traced back to the Goguryeo mural tombs of the mid-4th century. The oldest known examples of Banja Dancheong styles in Korean traditional architecture are Beomja lotus pattern decorated in well-shaped Banja of the Daeungjeon Hall of Bongjeongsa Temple in Andong (1435), the Geungnakbojeon Hall of Muwisa Temple in Gangjin (1430) and the Guksajeon Hall of Songgwangsa Temple (15th century). This Beomja lotus pattern, adorned with the ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’ mantra, emerges as an almost definitive example. Therefore, it is evident that this decorative element stands as a quintessential exemplar of the early style among well-shaped Banja decorations in Korean temple architecture. The Ohwayeonhwadangcho pattern, encapsulating the essence of the lotus motif, is a Dancheong pattern with a lineage that stretches back to the early Joseon Dynasty, where it was initially employed in the Banja wells. This pattern exhibits design characteristics that are perfectly suited to the square Banja wells. The lotus pattern, thus, has been extensively utilized as a decorative motif in palaces, temples, and Confucian architectural structures, evolving continuously from Korea’s Goguryeo period Dancheong patterns to the present day.