Ball
Choson dynasty (1392–1910), 19th century
Medium
Silk, shaped in twelve pentagonal, six hexagonal, and two circular motifs of satin, satin damask, twill, and plain weaves; some self-patterned; all embroidered with silk in knot, ribbed back stitched wheel, single, darned and padded satin, running, and whipped running stitches; pile formed from cut running stitches; padded with paper; laid work and couching; pieced with cotton in overcast stitches; underlaid with cotton, plain weave; padded; and filled with rattling element
Dimensions
Approx: Diam.: 16.5 cm (6 1/2 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
153656
Art Historical Context
This exquisite silk ball from Korea's Chosŏn dynasty (1392–1910), crafted in the 19th century, captures the era's masterful textile artistry. Measuring just 6½ inches in diameter, it a spherical toy or game object, ingeniously pieced together from twelve pentagonal, six hexagonal, and two circular motifs satin, satin damask,ill, and plain weaves A hidden rattling element inside adds a playful functionality, suggesting it was used by children or in traditional games, blending utility with ornamental beauty. The ball's construction showcases extraordinary embroidery techniques, including knot, ...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...