A Study on Terminology of the Leg and Foot style of Traditional Furniture - Focusing on Traditional Korean and Western Furniture -

전통가구의 다리와 발 스타일 용어 연구 - 한국 및 서구 중심으로 -

This study explores terminology for legs and feet in the traditional Korean and Western furniture. Pieces of traditional Korean and Western furniture have been largely made of the eco-friendly material, natural wood, and thus important in the latest trends of wellness, such as LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) and a green period. Legs in traditional Korean furniture appeared in dinging tables, and the feet in wardrobes. The limited use of legs and feet seems to be influenced by floor-oriented lifestyles of Korean ancestors. In contrast, most pieces of Western furniture, which is from the chair and bed culture, have various styles of foot and leg. While th two groups are from different backgrounds, both of them have developed various legs and feet applying natural subjects such as animals and plants to each of their furniture including wardrobes, cabinets, dining tables, chairs, consoles, etc. It is also found that the traditional Korean furniture can be influenced by a traditional Chinese chair foot called Neabunmajae, which describes inner horse foot. Neabunmajae was known in Korean furniture legs and feet, but the terminology has not been known. The study suggests that terms which appear in traditional furniture but are unknown should be studied more.