Traditional Paintings
Portrait of Sin Sukju (1417-1475). Imperial Bureau of Painting, Ink on Silk. c. 15th century CE. Joseon Period, Korea.
The Joseon dynasty was a period of ultimate rule by leaders of Korea. Sin Sukju was one of the politicians who ruled in this period. During his rule, this propagandistic portrait of Sin Sukju was created. The importance of this painting is represented in its location sat the Imperial Bureau of Painting. Silk was one of Asia's main trade goods during the time; the popularity of this soft material was evident in the formation of the Silk Road. The high demand and value of this material indicates thus a high value of this artwork. Traditional Asian art commonly featured silk as a canvas. Sin Sukju is a powerful leader during this time period, and this painting is evidence of his dominance.
The Joseon dynasty was a period of ultimate rule by leaders of Korea. Sin Sukju was one of the politicians who ruled in this period. During his rule, this propagandistic portrait of Sin Sukju was created. The importance of this painting is represented in its location sat the Imperial Bureau of Painting. Silk was one of Asia's main trade goods during the time; the popularity of this soft material was evident in the formation of the Silk Road. The high demand and value of this material indicates thus a high value of this artwork. Traditional Asian art commonly featured silk as a canvas. Sin Sukju is a powerful leader during this time period, and this painting is evidence of his dominance.
Landscapes in the Style of An Gyeon. 15th century, unknown artist. Joseon
dynasty, Korea. Pair of hanging scrolls, ink on silk. In the Joseon period, landscape painting changed. Chinese artistic characteristics were blended with unique Korean techniques. The brushwork of this piece and the contrasting shades are parallel to the style of An Gyeon, a painter who helped develop this style which captures the beauty of the landscape. The lack of standard details, such as boats or bridges, shows a focus on capturing the mood of the place and not the exact scene. |
Plum Branch. Yi Yuwon, 1888, Joseon dynasty.
Hanging scroll, ink on paper. Yi Yuwon was a scholar-official who excelled in painting. The flowering plum was a common subject in Korean art, specifically monochromatic paintings like the one shown. The flowering plum, with the bamboo, orchid, and chrysanthemum, represent not only the four seasons but also the virtues of Confucianism. |
Birds and Flowers. Late 19th century, Joseon dynasty, Korea.
Ten–panel folding screen, ink and color on paper.
East Asian art is known for depicting nature scenes involving birds and flowers. Careful and delicate strokes result in a stunning realism. The pairing of birds in the picture symbolize male-female pairing, or eternal marriage. These screens are used for the bridal chamber the promote a happy marriage, but also success in the future. Familial values of Asian society are shown in the artistic emphasis on successful marriage.
Ten–panel folding screen, ink and color on paper.
East Asian art is known for depicting nature scenes involving birds and flowers. Careful and delicate strokes result in a stunning realism. The pairing of birds in the picture symbolize male-female pairing, or eternal marriage. These screens are used for the bridal chamber the promote a happy marriage, but also success in the future. Familial values of Asian society are shown in the artistic emphasis on successful marriage.