국립중앙박물관 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF KOREA

Clay Figurine

Silla clay figurines were shaped like people, animals, and objects from everyday life. The human figurines, which could be expressed simply, humorously, or quite boldly, were usually attached to the neck and shoulder of ceramic jars or lids, although some were made as separate miniatures. These figures vividly illustrate aspects of daily life in Silla, showing people riding horses or boats, couples singing and dancing, musicians playing instruments, warriors with swords, farmers with plows, and a mourner kneeling in front of a corpse. Some figurines show men and women with exaggerated genitals or having intercourse, symbolizing hopes for fertility and bounty. In addition, numerous figurines depicting farm animals, wild animals (such as tigers, snakes, and birds), and marine animals have also been found.