Northeast Asian History Network

Southern Wall of the Antechamber (Western Section) - Detailed View of the Horn Flutist

This is the horn flutist depicted on the western section of the southern antechamber wall. This figure is holding a large horn flute with both hands and fervently playing the instrument. The flutist is wearing a Geon (a type of ancient headwear that wraps around the entire head and tied in the back, similar to a bandanna), Jeogori (traditional Korean upper garment) accentuated with black Seons (accents on garments mimicking the black feathers on a crane’s neck or wingtips, influenced by Siberian shamanism), and form-fitting trousers referred to as Gung-gos. A horizontal black line that divides the wall into two sections can be seen at the feet of the musician. The line seems as if it was drawn with a straightedge.
Traces of additional artwork can be seen to the left of the horn flutist. Perhaps the remnants of a long tube, curved symmetrically to the horn flute on the right, are indicative of another horn flutist depiction that deteriorated over time. Although the current state of deterioration has only left traces of visible elements, perhaps another horn flutist, playing his instrument while facing the other musician, was once depicted in this mural.