Earthenware Found in the Tombs

The earthenware potteries excavated from the tombs are being exhibited in the museum. Most of them were made in the early Baekje Period. Among all the artifacts displayed in the museum, the black burnished pottery is particularly noteworthy.

Black burnished pottery is made by using gravel and a dull pointed tool to smooth out the surface. Its black color is a result of its defining feature ? the smooth surface, which allows it to absorb a much higher amount of carbon than regular pottery in its original state.

Creating black burnished pottery requires the skilled techniques of master craftsmen and a considerable amount of time, making it a high-end item. It first appeared in the series of earthenware during the early Baekje period and was later developed into a unique style.

Many black burnished potteries were found in the capital areas, such as Pungnaptoseong Fortress and Mongchontoseong Fortress, the royal tombs in Seokchon-dong, and the tombs of regional noblemen. Due to their high-end nature, they were used to symbolize the authority of the ruling class at that time.