Northeast Asian History Network

Northern Wall of the Main Chamber - Valet 3

This is a detailed view of the valets depicted on the northern wall of the main chamber in Susahn-ri Tomb. The two valets are standing in a Gongsu stance (left hand placed above the right in a gesture of respect or submission), tending to the nobleman. The figures' neat black outlines enhance their tidy appearance. This image is a very valuable source of information for understanding the level of Koguryo artistry due to their excellent state of preservation.
They are wearing Geons (a type of ancient headwear that wraps around the entire head and tied in the back, similar to a bandanna) around their heads and form-fitting trousers 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. The figures are wearing Jeogoris (traditional Korean upper garment) with straps around the waists, and notably, the necklines, sleeves, and bottom hemlines have been treated with 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. Although these two valets look like twins at a glance, the different combinations of black, white, and yellow colors on the Jeogoris, trousers, and Seons are effective in distinguishing their individuality. They are also wearing low-top shoes for greater mobility.
This scene conveys the artistic sensitivity of Koguryo artists.The front panels of Jeogoris (traditional Korean upper garment) were worn left to the right in a style known as U-im (Korean style for wearing traditional Hanbok; literally "panel right"). Although the opposite Jwa-im (literally "panel left") style was traditionally worn in Koguryo, both styles gained wide acceptance after U-im was introduced in the region by the Han Chinese. The plump face, flowing attire, and balanced proportions provide viewers with a glimpse of high-level Koguryo artistry.