Bronze Old Silla Dynasty Era Spoon
6th century
Classification
cutlery
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Paul Manheim
Accession Number
1968-155-18
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Step into the world of ancient Korea with this intriguing *Bronze Old Silla Era Spoon*, dating back to the 6th century. Crafted during the Old Silla period (roughly 57 BCE–660 CE), of Korea's Three Kingdoms, this unassuming piece of cutlery offers a window into everyday life amid a era of burgeoning artistry and metallurgy. The Silla Kingdom, centered in the southeastern Korean Peninsula, was renowned for its bronze work, which extended from grand ritual vessels to practical utensils like spoons. Though research is ongoing, the spoon's bronze construction highlights the advanced casting techn...
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...