Comparative Analysis of Toiletries Design in Korea, China and Japan: From Late 17th to 19th Century

This research describes the design characteristics in Korea, China, and Japan by investigating makeup culture and toiletries. To find unique design characteristics, the toiletries of upper class women from the 17th to 19th centuries were compared. The three countries developed their own forms, proportions, materials and surfaces. The design characteristics of Korean toiletries had diverse forms, flexible proportions, painted patterns with symbolic meanings, practical materials and soft surface, while those of China had a complicated structure and carved patterns. Japan had simple forms, sharp edges, and layered structure with colorful lacquers.