Korean aesthetics can be summed up in one word, mot. Used frequently in casual conversation, the term refers to stylishness, elegance and the state of being chic.
"Mot: The Beauty and Style of Joseon Dynasty Korean Women," currently being hosted by the Japan Folk Crafts Museum, provides a good visual definition of the term. The exhibition is comprised of 210 works from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), including costumes and accessories, ceramics and furniture on loan from the Amore Museum of Seoul, South Korea. All of the artifacts were personal items that belonged to Korean aristocrats, giving us an intimate view of their lifestyle.
Speaking to The Japan Times, Korean curator Moon Sunjoo of the Amore Museum said, "I would like Japanese visitors to the exhibition to experience the pure aesthetics and the beautiful, highly developed craftsmanship that was enjoyed by Korean noblewomen. This is the first occasion on which these artifacts are being shown outside of our country."
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