DAEJEON, SOUTH KOREA - The Daejeon City Museum is offering a fascinating glimpse into the marital traditions of the Joseon Dynasty with its latest small exhibition, "Joseon Dynasty Wedding." Open to the public from March 26th to May 27th within the museum's permanent exhibition hall, the showcase features a collection of newly acquired and significant artifacts related to weddings from that era.
The exhibition highlights the profound importance of marriage during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), a period when weddings were not merely personal unions but pivotal social rituals essential for gaining societal recognition and upholding family honor. The displayed items offer a rich understanding of the customs and etiquette that governed these significant life events.
Central to the exhibition is a recently donated 'Wonsam,' a traditional ceremonial robe favored by both the royal court and commoners. Unlike the more ornate 'Hwal-ot,' the 'Wonsam' was more accessible, leading to a unique practice where families and relatives would share a single robe for wedding ceremonies. The showcased 'Wonsam' is a fine example of this tradition, crafted from elegant jade-colored silk damask with vibrant red, blue, and yellow sleeves, characteristic of those worn by the general populace.
A particularly noteworthy artifact is the 'Honseoji,' a marriage proposal letter penned by the esteemed Daejeon scholar Song Jun-gil (1606-1672). This historical document was written for the marriage of his second grandson, Song Byeong-ha, to the niece of the governor of Haeju, Na Seong-du. With Song Jun-gil acting as the wedding host in place of the groom's father, the 'Honseoji' stands as a testament to his prominent role within the family and features his refined Haeseoche calligraphy.
Complementing these key pieces are other essential wedding items, including the 'Sajudanja,' a paper detailing the prospective bride and groom's birth information for compatibility assessment; a 'Wooden Goose,' symbolizing fidelity and marital harmony; and a 'Honsuham,' a chest used to carry wedding gifts.
"This exhibition provides a unique opportunity to examine authentic documents and objects used by our ancestors during wedding ceremonies in this region," remarked a representative from the Daejeon City Museum. "Visitors can gain valuable insights into the wedding culture and social landscape of the Joseon Dynasty through these tangible connections to the past."
The 'Joseon Dynasty Wedding' exhibition promises to be an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages, offering a fascinating glimpse into a cherished aspect of Korean heritage.
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