Najeon Chilgi Mother of Pearl Folding Screen — Pine & Crane by Oh Myung-ho

Overview

This Najeon Chilgi mother-of-pearl folding screen (byeongpung) features the Pine & Crane (송학 (songhak)) motif, a Korean symbol of longevity and steadfastness. Hand-inlaid iridescent shell is set into deep Korean lacquer, so the design shifts in color as the light moves. A folding screen brings a focal point of artistry to a living room, entryway, or study, and can be partly folded to stand freely on a console or floor.

Heritage & Craft

The pine-and-crane pairing is one of Korea's most beloved longevity emblems. The evergreen pine holds its needles through the harshest winter, standing for steadfastness and an enduring life, while the crane—revered as a bird of the immortals—signifies nobility, grace, and a long, dignified existence. Inlaid in mother-of-pearl, the cranes catch the light in shifting rainbow tones against the deep lacquer ground.

Artist

This piece is attributed to Oh Myung-ho, a Korean najeon-chilgi artisan. Because every motif is cut and laid by hand, each work carries its own subtle variations—making this an effectively one-of-a-kind piece.

Specifications

• Material: wood with natural Korean lacquer (ottchil) and mother-of-pearl (najeon) inlay.
• Format: decorative folding screen (byeongpung); exact dimensions shown in the product images.
• Care: dust with a soft, dry cloth; keep away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture to protect the lacquer and shell inlay.
• Origin: Handcrafted in Korea (najeon-chilgi, mother-of-pearl inlaid lacquerware).

Gifting

A folding screen of this kind is a statement gift for a milestone—housewarmings, anniversaries, retirements, or a memorable present for friends abroad who appreciate authentic Korean craft and heritage decor.