A Study on Architectural tools and Woodworking in Baekje

백제의 건축연장과 치목기술에 관한 연구

History of architecture technology is the area where further studies are the most needed in Korean architecture history. This present study deals with architectural tools and woodworking of Baekje as a first step in exploration of Korean architecture technology history especially, that of Baekje dynasty. Based on the study of real artifacts and archeological sites showing the trace of tool use, function and forms of architectural tools were classified, characteristics of tools investigated, and woodworking technology analyzed. The main tools of analysis include Square, Black Inkpot, Hatchet, Saw, Chisel, Wood Hammer, Axe, and Plane. It is assumed that architectural technology during Baekje dynasty might have leapt into the new stage thanks to the regular use of iron tools. Compared to those of previous eras, iron tools of Baekje are more elaboratedly-designed and well-defined in function. In addition, wooden architectural tools from Baekje demonstrate the superiority of its woodworking technology Historical record also shows the fact that craftsman from Baekje participated in construction of temples of Shilla and Japan. Precise assessment of Baeje architecture technology is difficult because no Baekje wooden architecture is still remaining. The facts mentioned above, however, surely prove the excellence of architecture technology of Baekje.