The Pinnacle of East Asian Craftsmanship: The Baekje Gilt-Bronze Incense Burner

In 1993, an artifact that astonished the world was unearthed at a construction site for a parking lot near the Neungsan-ri Tombs in Buyeo. This was the 'Baekje Gilt-Bronze Incense Burner'. Thanks to the sealed environment within the mud, it emerged into the world in a state of preservation so perfect that it defied its 1,400 years of history. The incense burner features a design where dragons support a lotus bud, atop which are intricately sculpted scenes of Mount Bongnae, where immortals reside, five musicians, and numerous flora and fauna. This incense burner, a masterful fusion of Buddhist and Taoist philosophies, is the ultimate masterpiece showcasing Baekje's original and outstanding metalworking techniques and high cultural standards.