Figure Item Number: 3327/5 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Pair of matching wooden phoenix figures or kkokdu (꼭두) carved and painted. Each depicts a phoenix from the neck upwards. The phoenix is yellow, with a green band down the back, and red and green dots with flecks of white all over. Extending from its head are a large red comb and wattle with a hole drilled through it. The eyes are almond shaped, and the beak is white. Mounted on a two-tiered wood base.

Specific Techniques

These contemporary kkokdu are based on old designs. The artists used old wood and stain/dust known as "Tae" to make them look older. The colouring is called "dancheong", and the natural pigment used was extracted from powdered stone and shell.