Chanhap

Paulownia wood
19th century

A chanhap is a stackable food container used to conveniently store or transport various side dishes in separate compartments, serving a similar function to modern lunch boxes seen today. Records in "Imwon Gyeongjeji" and the text "Jinchanyeogui" (1868, Gojong Year 5) mention the term "waechanhap," suggesting that it originally came from Japan. This chanhap is made of paulownia wood, with the interior space of the elongated chest divided into five sections with shelves, each holding a drawer-like compartment. The front of each drawer is engraved with the numbers 一, 二, 三, 四, 五 (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) in sequence from top to bottom, and these numbers are painted in red. The back of the chanhap has round holes to allow the drawers to be pushed out with a finger. The front of the entire chest is closed with a simple wood panel, which slides into grooves on both sides.

This chanhap is not only functional, serving the purpose of storing and transporting food, but it also has a simple, minimal allure in its design. Despite the potential weight due to the layered drawers inside, the use of lightweight and insect-resistant paulownia wood ensures that it is not too heavy, even when filled with food. Additionally, rings are attached to both sides and the top, making it convenient to carry by attaching a strap.