Tiger-leg table

Joseon · 2F · Calligraphy and Painting · Wood and Lacquer Crafts

A small portable tray-table used to carry food or to serve as a dining table in a room is called a soban. The hojokban takes its name from its legs, which curve outward then inward in a graceful S-shape with the feet slightly splayed, resembling the legs of a tiger. This example is notably plain, with undecorated legs; beneath its twelve-sided top, where the grain of the zelkova wood shows clearly, an 'a' (亞)-shaped openwork pattern harmonizes its straight lines with the curve of the legs. The joints connecting the legs to the foot rail are set high, making the legs appear even longer.

See it in person at the National Museum of Korea — 2F · Calligraphy and Painting · Wood and Lacquer Crafts

Source: based on official e-museum records (National Museum of Korea).