개화기와 대한제국기 공문서의 李花紋 전개 양상

Abstract

This paper examined the development of the Ewha flower emblem for official documents in Korea from the late 19th century to the early 20th century collected in the Jangseogak Archives and identified the background of its use on official documents. In the process of integrating into the international order after the opening of its ports and thus of establishing diplomatic relations with the West as well as introducing a modern system of the outside world, the Korean Empire felt the need for a national emblem. The Ewha flower mentioned in the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty symbolized the royal family itself of the Joseon Dynasty or was used when to praise the great achievements of the dynastic founding, and also a symbol of the fundamental roots and prosperity of the Joseon Dynasty. In addition to other traditional patterns and the Taegeuk pattern originating from Taegeuk-do, the Ehwa flower emblem appeared in coins, stamps, and architecture such as the Dongnimmun Gate in the late of 19th century. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the watermark of the Ewha emblem was found in passports before the Korean Empire. As the forms of the official document changed, the watermark of the Ewha or Mugunghwa emblem appeared in the letters of appointment to officials of the Korean Empire after December 1906. The paper used for the appointment letters was made by the Printing Bureau of Takjibu, a successor to Jeonwonguk located in Yongsan. The watermark of the Ewha flower emblem was adopted to prevent forgery or enhance security of official documents. Despite the influence of the Japanese practice of making official documents, the Ewha emblem was stilled used on official documents in Korea from 1887 to 1910, as a product of modernization the country pursued earlier on.