Northeast Asian History Network

Western Wall of the Main Chamber - Valets

This is a detailed view of the valets carrying a sunshade (used by nobles in ancient times for sun protection, similar to a modern-day parasol) on the western wall of the main chamber in Susahn-ri Tomb. The valet on the right is carrying the sunshade while the other is walking close by in a Gongsu stance (left hand placed above the right in a gesture of respect or submission). These valets are responsible for protecting the nobleman from the sun when he is on horseback.
The valets are wearing black Geons (a type of ancient headwear that wraps around the entire head and tied in the back, similar to a bandanna) as well as form-fitting trousers that provide high mobility known as Gung-go. Although Geons were primarily worn by valets or the lower-class during the Koguryo era, they were also used by nobility for hunting or other outdoor activities. They are also wearing Jeogoris (traditional Korean upper garment) with waistbands, and the necklines, sleeves, and bottom hemlines feature Seons (accents on garments mimicking the black feathers on a crane’s neck or wingtips, influenced by Siberian shamanism). In addition to the decorative effect, the Seon also has a practical purpose of preventing wear. Seons were essential elements of Koguryo-era attire applied to all upper garments such as the Jeogori regardless of gender, age, or social status.
The bent handle of the black sunshade was designed to protect a person from the sun at a certain distance. Fortunately, at least a glimpse of the Koguryo people's ingenuity can be seen through the remains of these murals.