Baekje Envoy to the Liang Dynasty

The painting of Yangjikgongdo is exhibited opposite the Envoy ship. It portrays envoys from various countries who came to China during the Liang Dynasty in the early 6th century to pay tribute. The portraits of the figures are remarkably realistic, as the paintings were drawn in fine details.

An envoy from Baekje was painted at the center of the painting. Shall we take a look of his outfit? He is wearing an official Korean hat, a traditional overcoat, and wide trousers, paired with leather shoes. His appearance exudes refinement and elegance in these traditional costumes. Compared to the envoys from other countries next to him, his attire is notably distinctive, as some of them are merely clothed with no shoes. This painting implies that Baekje was a highly sophisticated kingdom compared to its neighbors.

There’s also a brief description written next to the portraits in the painting. It simply described Baekje including its active engagement in foreign relations with China. A part of it stated that “Baekje was a country that originated from Mahan, and its language and costumes were similar to Goguryeo, which defeated Goguryeo greatly in the past”.

The painting of Yangjikgongdo provides invaluable and detailed information about Baekje culture and customs in the 6th century.