Northeast Asian History Network

Western Wall of the Western Auxiliary Chamber - Portrait of the Deceased (Male)

This is a detailed view of the nobleman depicted in the western auxiliary chamber of Anak Tomb No. 3. He can be seen sitting upright and wearing a black Naegwan (literally “inner hat”). A point of contention is the outer hat worn over the Naegwan. Some theorize that it is a Ragwan (literally “silk hat”) while others believe that it's a Mugwan (literally “military hat”) prevalent in the Han dynasty. The nobleman's official uniform is a robe-like red Durumagi (traditional Korean overcoat). Although a waistband is generally tied on a Durumagi, the nobleman's waistband can be seen flowing down to his knees. The neckline and sleeves of the Durumagi feature yellow Seons (accents on garments mimicking the black feathers on a crane's neck or wingtips, influenced by Siberian shamanism), and a white inner-Jeogori (traditional Korean upper garment) can be partially seen. He is holding a Jumi (fan made with horsehair or cloth, symbolizing high status in ancient China) in his right hand. An L-shaped folding screen can be seen behind the wooden platform. The black belt-like object around the nobleman's waist is referred to as a Bing-gweh (literally “leaning table”) and was used as an armrest or for leaning when sitting.
The triangular composition conveys a sense of stability and a hint of majesty usually seen in depictions of deities. One cannot help but admire the fine details painstakingly recreated in the patterns of the folding screen and each individual hair on the nobleman's mustache. The level of artistry in this mural is absolutely outstanding.