• Journal of Conservation Science
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• v.34 no.1
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• pp.51-57
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• 2018

Herein, we present the results of the analysis of a lacquer coating fragment excavated from 'Daesungdong No.88 tomb of Gimhae'. We observed the fragment with an optical microscope and used scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) as well as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis to determine the structure of the lacquer coating and the technique used for coating. The sample was identified as a Moksim Jophy Lacquer. It is made from wood, painted with textile fabric and coated with soil clay. The SEM-EDS analysis revealed residues of bone meal at the bottom part of the sheath layer. The incorporation of bone meal in a lacquer coating layer is one of the characteristics of the Han Dynasty, and was also found in the Nangnang Region and the United Silla Dynasty. Inside the sword sheath is a specific adherent structure of silk fabric, the same type of leguminous plant found in another sword sheath excavated from the Eastern Han-tomb of Xi'an. Results constitute the latest information about lacquer ware found in the southern district of the Korean peninsula. Moreover, the findings shed light on an international relationship with Kumkwan-Kaya where the sword sheath was produced.