Goguryeo (ancient Korea), 5th century
I took the inspiration from Sandro Botticelli’s masterpiece “Primavera (Spring),” especially the dancing Three Graces.
The ladies are based on various Goguryeo tomb murals. Their jeogori (upper garment) and long robes are dotted with intricate geometric patterns. Wide and voluminous skirts makes a distinct A-shaped silhouette. These fashion elements are shared by other ancient Korean states such as Baekje and Silla.
One thing that stands out is the complex headdress worn by the woman in the far right. It is based on the portrait of the buried in the mid-5th century Cheonwangjishinchong Tomb. This mysterious hat is adorned with red beads and golden flowers. Long strands of rosette-patterned fabric are hanging down from both sides. It appears to be a turban or a fur-rimmed hat, but due to the poor state of preservation, it is hard to determine.
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Sources
Cheonwangjishinchong Tomb (천왕지신총), mid 5th century
Gaemachong Tomb (개마총), early 6th century
Gangseodaemyo Tomb (강서대묘), early 7th century
Golden earrings, Goguryeo, National Museum of Korea
Jinpa-ri Tomb No. 1 (진파리 1호분), mid 6th century
Muyongchong Tomb (무용총), early 5th century
Susahn-ri Tomb (수산리 벽화분), late 5th century
국립문화재연구소, 『천상의 문양예술: 고구려 고분벽화』, 2020
전호태, 「고구려 진파리1호분 연구」, 『역사와 현실 제95호』, 한국역사연구회, 2015
전호태, 「고구려 천왕지신총 연구」, 『선사와 고대 제67호』, 한국역사연구회, 2021