Nevertheless, they have always produced sculptures, paintings, and pottery that are peculiarly their own. .

             Little early Korean sculpture has survived, though a few fine stone figures and relief carvings during the reign of the Silla Dynasty. Most of the sculpture of this period is of bronze, small in scale, and dedicated to Buddhist deities. remain. The golden age of Korean sculpture reached its height in the late 7th century.

             Except for some tomb frescoes dating from the 4th through the 7th centuries, few examples of early Korean painting have survived. Painters of the last Yi Dynasty (1392-1910), however, left a rich legacy. Their paintings were executed on silk or paper scrolls and album leaves. They depicted towering landscapes, important personages, and scenes of daily life. .

             The ceramics of Korea almost certainly represent the country's most significant artistic contribution. Functional as well as decorative, Korean ceramics have an unmistakable character. The utilitarian vessels of the Silla period are of sturdy dark-gray earthenware with modest, usually incised, decoration. The rich-green celadons of the Koryo period are adorned with brilliant brushed or inlaid designs that are admirably adapted to their forms. The heavier wares of the Yi Dynasty bear designs, usually on a white porcelaneous base, which seem swiftly executed, almost offhand, yet masterly. .

             Early Korean architecture is exemplified by the tombs of Koguryo and the remains of great walled fortresses. From the late 7th century into the Koryo Dynasty many Buddhist temple complexes--actually small villages-- were built. Although their general features were Chinese, they were adapted to local materials and landscape by their Korean builders. .

             Early Korean architecture is exemplified by the tombs of Koguryo and the remains of great walled fortresses. From the late 7th century into the Koryo Dynasty many Buddhist temple complexes--actually small villages-- were built.