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National Treasure

Gold Earrings from Bubuchong Tomb, Gyeongju

경주 부부총 금귀걸이 ( 慶州 夫婦塚 金製耳飾 )

Heritage Search Detail
Classification National Treasure
Name of Cultural Properties Gold Earrings from Bubuchong Tomb, Gyeongju
Quantity 1 pair
Designated Date 1962.12.20
Age The 5th century (Silla)
Address National Museum of Korea, 137, Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

This pair of gold earrings with length of 8.7 centimeters was excavated from an ancient tomb of Silla (57-935), now called Bubuchong (“Tomb of the Couple”), in Bomun-dong, Gyeongju. Each earring consists of thick, hollow ring at the top, interlocking, thinner ring, and double-tier clusters of tiny leaves plus a large, heart-shaped pendant at the lowest part. The large hollow rings have the surface ornately decorated with three or four-leaf designs contained in hexagonal shapes of tortoise shell made using the filigree and granulation techniques. The hanging ornaments of the lower section are further embellished by tiny gold granules. Most of the gold earrings of Silla discovered so far are decorated by the filigree and granulation techniques introduced from the Southwest Asian region. In particular, this pair of earrings is highly regarded for the lavish filigree and granulation ornamentation covering the surface of all parts.