Large Najeon Chilgi Mother of Pearl Folding Screen by Oh Myung-ho

Overview

This Large Najeon Chilgi mother-of-pearl folding screen (byeongpung) showcases the centuries-old Korean craft of shell-inlaid lacquerware. Slivers of iridescent mother-of-pearl are set by hand into lustrous black lacquer, catching the light in shifting rainbow tones. 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

Najeon-chilgi is the Korean art of inlaying cut mother-of-pearl into lacquered wood. Thin pieces of shell are shaped, laid into successive coats of natural lacquer (ottchil), and polished smooth, a slow layered process that gives the surface its depth and durable, glowing finish. The undecorated ground lets the natural iridescence of the shell take center stage.

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), large size; 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.