Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Lacquer Box with Cranes and Pines

• A museum-grade Najeon Chilgi Ham (mother-of-pearl lacquer treasure box), conceived as a private archive for what is rare, personal, and meant to endure. Crafted by Choi Tae-Hwa, a Korean Government–Certified “Myeongjang” (Master Artisan)—a designation reserved for nationally recognized masters and granted in limited cycles to the leading craftsperson in each field. The work is executed with 100% natural materials and zero synthetic or chemical additives, preserving the integrity of Korea’s most uncompromising lacquer tradition. Finished in twelve hand-applied coats of natural ott (urushi) lacquer, the surface does not merely retain color—it matures, deepening in tonal complexity over three years and further over ten. The composition centers on Songhak (Crane & Pine)—a classic emblem of longevity, noble spirit, and enduring fortune—rendered in nacre that reads as living light as illumination shifts. Each motif is master-designed and then cut, refined, and seated fragment by fragment, achieving disciplined precision and a luminous, heirloom presence. Offered with Signature Legacy’s provenance-first standard, it arrives prepared for serious collecting.

• Category: Heirloom-grade Najeon Chilgi Ham — collectible mother-of-pearl lacquer treasure box
• Artist: Choi Tae-Hwa — Korean Government–Certified Myeongjang (Master Artisan); institutional-level authorship and scarcity
• Materials: 100% natural / zero chemicals — no synthetic additives, no chemical components
• Process: 12 coats of natural ott (urushi) lacquer, repeatedly cured; tone matures and deepens over time (3 years → 10 years)
• Motif: Songhak (Crane & Pine) — longevity and steadfast virtue; iridescent nacre surfaces that shift with ambient light
• Provenance: Delivered with Signature Legacy Certificate of Authenticity, matched to a dedicated provenance record; eligible for advanced provenance registration where available

• Master-Designed Mother-of-Pearl Inlay: Every nacre motif is designed by the Master himself, then realized with extraordinary precision—each fragment of mother-of-pearl is cut, shaped, and refined stitch by stitch, exactly following the original drawing. The inlay is then seated and anchored using natural materials, creating a surface that is iridescent, disciplined, and uncompromisingly exact.

• Origin: Made in Korea.

• Dimensions: W 333 mm × D 252 mm × H 184 mm
(Approx. 13.11" × 9.92" × 7.24")

• Weight: 2.71 kg
(Approx. 5.97 lb)

• As each piece is handcrafted, slight variations may occur.

• Signature Legacy pieces are made with carefully selected materials and crafted for long-term collecting.
To preserve the clarity and brilliance of the mother-of-pearl surface, please handle with care.
• Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods, high heat, and excessive humidity
• Keep away from water exposure; if it becomes wet, dry immediately with a soft, dry cloth
• Do not use alcohol, solvents, chemical cleaners, or abrasive materials
• Dust gently with a clean microfiber cloth; for handling, cotton gloves are recommended
Store in a clean, dry environment; keep the lid closed when not in use to protect the surface

• At Signature Legacy, we honor works that carry human time, heritage, and mastery—not just function. Every piece is presented with a provenance-first mindset: clear authorship, responsible handling, and collector-level standards from documentation to delivery.

• We also design the collecting experience to match the dignity of the work itself—through protective packaging, careful handling, and a service approach that helps global collectors acquire with confidence.

Collector Services (upon request)

• Protective, collector-grade packaging
• Secure international delivery options (signature required / insured shipping where applicable)
• Concierge support for collecting, gifting, and placement guidance