Heemuse Traditional Korean Norigae - Tiger and Magpie Mother-of-Pearl Keyring (Jade)

Heemuse Traditional Korean Norigae - Tiger and Magpie Mother-of-Pearl Keyring

Experience the fusion of cultural symbolism and traditional craftsmanship with Heemuse’s unique norigae featuring both the tiger and magpie in a single elegant accessory.

Product Overview

• Materials: Handcrafted from natural mother-of-pearl using traditional Korean inlay techniques, complemented by delicate silk knots and premium metal components.

• Design:
  This norigae beautifully incorporates both the tiger and magpie motifs into one harmonious piece, inspired by 호작도 (Tiger and Magpie), a celebrated painting created in 1592 during the Joseon Dynasty. Although 호작도's author is unknown, the artwork gained great cultural significance and influenced later Korean artists including the renowned painter Kim Hong-do (1745–1806), a master of traditional Korean painting.

  The painting symbolically represents a majestic tiger, embodying protection and courage, alongside a magpie, a harbinger of happiness and good fortune. Together, these animals express harmony and auspicious balance, deeply rooted in Korean cultural heritage.

• Usage: Perfect as a decorative accessory for handbags, keys, wallets, or traditional hanbok ensembles. Also suitable as a meaningful gift or collectible highlighting Korean heritage.

Features

• Authentic handcrafted Korean mother-of-pearl artistry.

• Compact size (~10 cm), light and easy to carry.

• Comes in a traditional Korean bojagi wrapping cloth, perfect for gifting.

• Includes bilingual (English and Korean) explanation card detailing cultural significance.

• Celebrates centuries-old Korean folk art and symbolic motifs reflecting long-standing traditions from the late 16th century and Joseon era masterpiece paintings.

Dimensions & Details

• Length: Approximately 10 cm, slight variations due to handcrafted nature.

• Materials: Natural mother-of-pearl shell, silk threads, metal keyring.

• Weight: Lightweight and portable.

Care Instructions

• Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and moisture to maintain luster.

• Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.

• Store in the provided bojagi wrapping when not in use to protect the finish.

Cultural Inspiration: 호작도 (Tiger and Magpie Painting) from 1592

This design pays homage to 호작도, a traditional Korean painting dating back to 1592 (the year of the Imjin War), which is among the oldest extant representations of the tiger and magpie motif in Korean art. The painting’s origins reflect a time when the tiger symbolized authority, power, and protection amidst societal turmoil, while the magpie was regarded as a bearer of joy and good news. This revered artwork’s spirit influenced Joseon era painters like Kim Hong-do (1745–1806), who advanced Korean traditional painting styles, and continues to inspire cultural expressions today.

Heemuse’s norigae encapsulates this rich historical and artistic legacy, blending traditional symbolism with contemporary craftsmanship to bring meaning and beauty to daily life.