A Glimpse into Korea's Rich Heritage: Treasures from the Land of the Morning Calm at Dresden Castle
- Treasures of Korea housed at Dresden Castle
Let's dive into a kaleidoscope of artistic prowess and cultural riches from Korea, a land steeped in history that stretches over 1,500 years. From March 15 to August 10, Dresden's Residenzschloss will play host to "100 Ideas of Happiness," the first comprehensive exhibition of Korean art in Germany in a quarter of a century. As Marius Winzeler, the acting SKD general director, noted, this is a reciprocal gesture following the "The Dream of a King" exhibition in Korea back in 2017/2018.
Treasures galore await visitors, with close to 350 exquisite objects on display, showcasing the diverse artistic traditions of this enchanting nation. The journey through history unfolds, taking us from the ancient kingdoms to the Joseon Dynasty in the 19th century, with contemporary fashion creations serving as a bridge to the present. Pride of place is given to Korea's national treasures such as the Silla Gold Crown, a glittering relic from the ancient tomb of Geumgwanchong, and a wealth of other pieces being displayed outside Korea for the first time.
Delve into Korea's burial culture, religion, ceramic art, and traditional attire – the Hanbok – as the exhibition sheds light on these fascinating aspects of Korean life. On display are works from the SKD collection amassed by German travelers in Korea in the 19th century, including armor, weapons, and folding screens. One such screen hails from the Grassi Museum of Ethnology in Leipzig, which is slated for restoration in Korea in 2024.
Masterful goldsmithing from the ancient Silla kingdom's royal tombs offer tantalizing glimpses into the kingdom's opulence, featuring a belt of solid gold, stunning headpieces, and intricate earrings and rings.
The National Museum of Korea, a network of 14 museums found in South Korea, boasts over 2.4 million cultural artifacts from around the world. Its general director, Kim Jae Hong, lauded the fruitful partnership between the National Museum of Korea and the SKD, as the joint exhibit offers a mesmerizing tapestry of Korean culture.
State Art Collections Dresden
- Korea
- Gold Jewelry
- Porcelain
- Saxony
- Happiness
- Germany
Embrace the profound cultural exchange as Korea and Germany share their art, history, and tradition in an extraordinary display of unity and shared essence. Don't miss this opportunity to estrange yourself in the enchanting world of Korea, a land where craftsmanship meets creativity, and history unfolds in the most unexpected, breathtaking ways.
In the revealing exhibition, "100 Ideas of Happiness," held in Dresden's Residenzschloss from March 15 to August 10, visitors can observe a fusion of Korean gold jewelry, porcelain, and more, courtesy of the State Art Collections Dresden, Saxony. This collaborative showcase between the National Museum of Korea and the SKD, showcases various artifacts, including national treasures from Korea, some of which are displayed outside Korea for the first time. A screen from the Grassi Museum of Ethnology in Leipzig is scheduled for restoration in Korea in 2024. The exhibition, with its diverse display of artistic traditions, offers a captivating glimpse into the vibrant cultural exchange between Korea and Germany.