Korea: Two women using heavy pangmangi batons to smooth clothing, watched by a small girl. Early 20th century

In Korea the drumming of traditional ironing sticks was traditionally considered a joyful sound, a symbol of a secure home life. Two women knelt on the floor, facing each other across a smoothing stone or tatumi-tol, a pangmangi club in each hand, beating out a rhythm on the cloth.

A Korean tatumi-tol granite or marble block was a valued family possession, perhaps with carved decoration, especially on the underside, so the design was visible when it was stored upside down to protect the smooth top. Ironing with pangmangi clubs requires skillful co-ordination and partnership.

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Supplier: CPA Media Co. Ltd.

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Pictures From History