A Study on Fur Rugs in Joseon Period

Abstract

This study is to examine the fur rugs in Joseon period. Rugs made of fabrics, fur, stem of plants, and papers depending on the changes of seasons started to be used in order to protect the body by keeping the cold and moisture in the floor out. Fur rugs in Joseon period were made of tiger skins, leopard skins, goat leathers, red fox skins, and dog skins Among them, fur have been loved from the ancient times up to now as a material which is excellent for keeping out the cold in order to survive in the cold climate. Fur had been steadily used as a ingredient of clothes and rugs since the ancient times. Fur rugs in Joseon period were made of tiger skins, leopard skins, goat leathers, red fox skins, and dog skins. Among them, tiger-skins and leopard-skins symboled the authority and dignity with the meanings of Four God worship (四神- Hyeonmu, Jujak, Baekho, Cheongryong) and apotropaic practices, which were preferred most. These were made as cushions (Adage) and were placed on the top of rugs of tall flat sedges and rugs of fabrics. In many ways, fur rugs were used not only for keeping out the cold but also for revealing the superiority of the ruling class in the rituals and formal affairs. Used furs depended on the degree of official rank and rugs of fabrics and tall flat sedges used together also depended on their materials and quantities. Not only that, fur rugs played the role of expressing the courtesy and formality reflecting the Confucian social order.