Namgung Chan Tomb Stone Figures

About this place

The Namgung Chan Tomb Stone Figures are two stone figures standing before the tomb of Namgung Chan, an early Joseon civil official. The figures are carved in granite: the right one stands 260 cm tall and the left one 250 cm. Each wears a large angular head and a cap with spherical bead-like ornaments, and features prominently protruding eyes, a broad nose, and a jutting chin. The garments are depicted as a traditional wide-sleeved coat (dopo), with finely carved drapery lines, and both hands are tucked inside the sleeves. The exact date of manufacture is unclear, but since the figures serve as tomb guardians for Namgung Chan's grave, they are believed to have been made at the same time as the tomb was constructed. Some scholars, noting the exotic appearance of the faces, have suggested the figures may have been imported from China, while others argue they are related to the hahrubang stone figures of Jeju Island. Stone figures from early Joseon tombs are extremely rare today. The Namgung Chan Tomb Stone Figures, with their clearly expressed facial features and clothing folds, are considered important resources for the study of early Joseon stone sculpture.