Tomb artifacts have a powerful effect over their viewers, reminding us of the grandeur of the past. The design of tombs and funeral vaults on a monumental scale and with luxurious details stand as symbols of a desire for immortality.
In contrast to the splendor and finery we find in royal funerary art, though, the charms of the average individual's mortuary items are often overlooked.
Currently the Korea Society of New York is hosting "Korean Funerary Figures: Companions for the Journey to the Other World," an exhibition that provides a glimpse at commoners' funerary art in Korea. The wooden dolls showcased were all used as decorations on funeral biers between the 19th century and the early 20th century during the late Choson Dynasty (1392-1910).