• Journal of architectural history
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• v.31 no.4
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• pp.45-56
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• 2022

Gachiljang(假漆匠), along with Jinchiljang(眞漆匠), is an important craftsman who cannot be left out during the finishing process of wooden furniture and wooden buildings during the Joseon Dynasty. The current definition of Gachiljang does not properly explain the nature and role of Gachiljang. In many related terminology dictionaries, Gachiljang is defined as "artisan who dose the base paintwork of Dancheong." But an analysis of the Joseon Dynasty's Uigwe(儀軌) shows that Gachiljang appears frequently in works that are not related to Dancheong at all. Therefore the current definition seems to be inaccurate and need to be revised. Gachiljang is a name that contrasts with Jinchiljang, and he makes and paints Myongyu(明油). Just as Jinchiljang uses not only lacquer but also various pigments to paint colorful lacquer, Gachiljang also uses various pigments to decorate buildings or furniture in a fancy way and then finishs with a transparent paint. Even in the Dancheong(丹靑) work of the building, all the base painting and finish coating work will be in charge of Gachiljang, except for the paintings performed by the Whawon(畫員) or the Whasa(畫師).