Korea - Icheung Nong - Joseon Dynasty - Circa 1900

A traditional Korean wardrobe with two superimposed sections, known as "Icheung Nong," is a two-tiered clothing cabinet made of solid wood with a pronounced grain, adorned with finely cut and engraved iron fittings, dating from the late Joseon Dynasty (circa 1900). The strictly rectangular structure rests on a continuous lower rail forming an integrated base, characteristic of antique Korean furniture. The architecturally designed and symmetrical front alternates four upper drawers with two central doors that lock on both levels. The horizontal separation visible on the sides confirms the construction in two stackable modules, typical of 19th-century Korean domestic furniture. The Korean zelkova wood exhibits a spectacular grain with deep, undulating patterns, enhanced by a uniform warm brown patina. The wide central panels reveal natural designs evoking abstract landscapes, highly sought after in the understated and refined aesthetic of Joseon furniture. The hardware consists of: finely cut iron hinges with a scalloped outline; Engraved floral rosettes in circular medallions; stylized vertical lock plates; simple rectangular hinged handles. The metalwork, fine, graphic, and not massive, differs markedly from contemporary Korean production and fully corresponds to Korean ironwork from the late Joseon Dynasty. The Icheung Nong was intended for storing clothing and textiles in traditional houses (hanok), often associated with private domestic spaces. Origin: Korea. Period: Late Joseon Dynasty (circa 1900). Dimensions: Height 114.5 cm; Width 96.5 cm; Depth 39.5 cm. Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: Belgian private collection - Purchased in the 1980s in Tokyo from an antique dealer.