Reviving a Cracked and Discolored Goryeo Dynasty Medicine Container Using Science and Technology

The cracked and discolored Goryeo Dynasty celadon has been restored to its original appearance.

Treasure with Completed Preservation Treatment: Celadon Inlaid with Incised Dragon Pattern and Inscribed 'Sangyakguk'

The Cultural Heritage Conservation Science Center of the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage announced on the 26th that it has completed the preservation treatment and restoration of the 'Celadon Inlaid with the Inscription of Sangyakguk (尙藥局) and Incised Cloud and Dragon Pattern Jar.'

This is a cylindrical celadon with a lid, designated as a Treasure in 1978. The inscription 'Sangyakguk,' an official government office responsible for medicine during the Goryeo period, is engraved in white on the upper part of the body and the lower part of the lid. Officials estimate that it was used for storing medicine. The production period is presumed to be around the 12th century, as Sangyakguk operated from the reign of King Mokjong to King Chungseon of Goryeo.

Important materials for the study of Goryeo celadon have been damaged in various places over the long years. In particular, the lid, which had been repaired in the past, showed clear discoloration, cracks, and lifting. During the regular inspection in 2022, it was assessed that 'preservation treatment is necessary.'

Engraved dragon pattern with the inscription 'Sangyakguk' in celadon inlay: 3D digitization and printing process

Since May of last year, the Cultural Heritage Conservation Science Center has conducted ultraviolet (UV) inspection, X-ray transmission inspection, and other analyses to determine the extent of previous repairs and identify the materials used. They found that the repair technique called 'Kintsugi,' originating from Japan, was applied at the boundary of the repaired parts, and all damaged repair materials were removed carefully without harming the original artifact. Subsequently, using three-dimensional (3D) scanning and printing technology, the missing parts were restored to closely resemble the original form.

An official stated, "The preserved artifact will be moved to the HanDok Medical Museum in early next month, and it will be publicly exhibited in the future."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.