국립중앙박물관 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF KOREA

Past Special
Red Phoenix, the Guardian Deity of the South
  • Location

    Goguryeo in Archaeological Gallery

  • Date

    Apr-03-2007 ~ Jul-01-2007

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Jujak(Red Phoenix) symbolizes seven of the 28 constellations, situated in the southern portion of the star chart. The belief of the Five Elements soon gave rise to the worship of the so-called ‘four cardinal deities,’ making jujak the guardian deity of the underworld.
In Goguryeo tomb murals, jujak was originally one among many symbols of the heavens and was given an appearance similar to a phoenix. Later on, as its importance within the visual language of tomb murals grew, jujak gradually shed its rather primitive appearance. Jujak was afforded more refined and elaborate details, eventually acquiring its characteristically esoteric look. From the 6th century downwards the representations of jujak became highly sophisticated, brilliantly colored and conveyed vigor and liveliness, eloquently showcasing the consummate artistry of Goguryeo painters.