Necklace from Cheonmachong Tomb

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.619

Category

Craft

Era

신라시대(5∼6세기)

Designated year

1978

Location

경주시, 경상북도— 경북 경주시 일정로 186, 국립경주박물관 (인왕동,국립경주박물관)

Coordinates

35.829387, 129.227912

This was found in a wood coffin in Cheonmachong Tomb. It is assumed to have been used as a necklace as it was found lying on the upper chest of the body. Gold, silver, jade and glass were the materials used. Besides the main chain, there are short hanging strands that would probably have dangled around the chest when worn. Blue jade, gold and silver pieces are lined up six by six and connected alternately. On both sides there is a big crocked piece of jade. The necklace makes a V when worn around the neck. A similar piece was earlier dug up in Geumnyeongchong (Heavenly Horse Tumulus) Tomb in Gyeongju. However the necklace dug up from thistomb is far smaller but far more splendid than that. Cheonmachong Tomb was originally called Gyeongju Tumulus, Tumulus No. 155 until it was excavated in 1973. After its excavation it was presumed to be either the tumulus of Silla's 21st Maripgan (a title for earlier kings of Silla) Soji or the 22nd Maripgan Jijeung. Alongside many invaluable relics including gold diadems and bracelets, a coffin with a Cheonma (heavenly horse) painted on its side was discovered, from which came the present name of the tomb.

Location