Highlights
Bronze Shamanistic Tool with a Star Design
- Nationality/Period
Joseon Dynasty
- Materials
Metal - Copper Alloy
- Category
Science & technology - Astronomy - Astronomical map - Others
- Dimensions
H. 3.6cm, D. 26.8cm
- Accession Number
Dongwon 1829
Known as a myeongdu (“brilliant star”), myeongdo (“brilliant chart”) or singyeong (“divine mirror”), this object was once regarded as one of the most important among a shaman’s tools. It was believed to be a vehicle containing the spirit of the shaman who used it, and hence was often handed over to his or her successor. Five Korean characters are inscribed on its inner surface. The string is now lost.