Geumgwan

Geumgwan, written in Korean as 금관 and in Chinese characters as 金冠, translates to "gold crown." In historical and archaeological contexts, the term refers to the ceremonial gold crowns associated with the ancient Korean kingdom of Silla, as well as to the related collection of crown-like gold artifacts recovered from Silla-era tombs.

Geumgwan crowns date to roughly the 1st through the 6th centuries CE, spanning the late Proto-Three Kingdoms to the early Unified Silla period. They are notable for their sophisticated metalwork, often featuring a circular base with radiating elements, and may include ornaments such as animal motifs, beads, and inlays of jade or glass. The crowns demonstrate advanced techniques such as granulation, filigree, and inlay, reflecting the technical skill of Silla artisans and the social importance of royal regalia.

Culturally, the Geumgwan crowns symbolize royal authority and the hierarchical structure of Silla society. They were buried with kings and high-status elites in elite tombs, providing researchers with crucial insights into burial practices, political legitimacy, and the economy of early medieval Korea. The artifacts are among the most important sources for understanding Silla art, trade networks, and religious or ceremonial traditions of the period.

Notable examples of Geumgwan crowns have been recovered primarily in the Gyeongju region, the historical heart of Silla. These crowns are frequently highlighted in museum collections and discussions of Korean early metalwork, and they are regarded as key heritage objects in the study of Korean antiquity.