• Conservation Science in Museum
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• v.30
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• pp.101-126
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• 2023

Bogjeon chongtong, a military firearm from the Joseon Dynasty, remains undocumented with extant ones only discovered relatively recently. This study examined the structural and material characteristics of the bogjeon chongtong by comparing the specifications, shapes, inscriptions, and components of 12 pieces of bogjeon chongtong, which have not been described in detail to date. Bogjeon chongtong has certain set properties in terms of its specifications and shapes. This study also estimated the number of projectiles fired at once by comparing the specifications and records. In terms of design, the handle slot has an outline engraved in relief along with the name of the artifact. The inscribed outline is the most notable feature of the bogjeon chongtong that is not seen in other chongtong artifacts. Therefore, this study analyzed the inscription techniques used in the production process. The main ingredients of bogjeon chongtong are copper and tin, with a tin content of 6wt%. It was confirmed that this is highly similar to the average composition of bronze gunpowder weapons of the Joseon Dynasty as identified in prior research, and that it is also similar to the bronze gunmetal of medieval Europe. These conclusions were drawn in consideration of the material properties required for gunpowder weapons, which allows the inference that the materials used for firearms were selected by prioritizing functionality based on the alloy ratio.