Non Western Blog: Korean Art - Joseon Period

The early Joseon period is marked by a distinct body of work that vividly illustrates renowned sceneries and locations in China, infused with literary significance and rich nostalgic associations. While this theme was recognized and adapted during the Goryeo dynasty, it reached unprecedented levels of popularity in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, with the majority of surviving paintings hailing from this latter period. The early Joseon scrolls and screens depicting the Eight Views are definitive examples of Korean transformations of this classic theme, showcasing landscapes with broader interpretations. A significant number of these landscapes are crafted in the An Gyeon style, named after the most celebrated and influential landscapist of the early Joseon period. Key characteristics of the An Gyeon style include distinctive cloud-like mountain forms and elegantly rendered pine trees.

            Shin Yun-bok, Boat Party on the Clear River, 1758

Shin Yun-bok

Shin Yun-bok, known as Hyewon, stands out as one of the foremost genre painters of the Joseon period. His genre paintings are unapologetically explicit, showcasing young scholars and noblemen reveling in the company of kisaeng, professional female entertainers. Beyond genre art, Shin excelled in landscapes in the literati style, masterfully portraying birds, animals, and calligraphy. His iconic painting, Boat Party on the Clear River, created in 1758, powerfully serves as an erotic protest against the oppressive Confucian society of Joseon, boldly expressing a desire for individual freedom and personal rebellion. Through his delicate and flowing brushstrokes and exquisite color palette, Shin infuses his genre paintings with a profound sophistication and atmosphere that demands attention.

                                Kim Hong-do, Danwondo, 1784

Kim Hong-do

During the Joseon period, Kim Hong-do, known as Danwon, emerged as a master of genre painting who excelled in a diverse range of artistic styles, including landscape painting, historical portraits, Daoist imagery, as well as bird and flower and Buddhist themes. His iconic work, Danwondo, compellingly captures the melancholic twists and turns of life. It vividly portrays the various facets of daily existence, showcasing ordinary people engaged in work or leisure while also conveying the nuanced sentiments between men and women. While his style may appear somewhat rough and unrefined, the deliberate brushstrokes and restrained color palette create a striking authenticity that is unmistakably impactful.

           Jeong Seon, Geumgangjeondo, Gyeomjae, 1734
  

 Jeong Seon

Another prominent painter of the Joseon period was Jeong Seon, who significantly shaped the landscape of Korean art. His work was heavily influenced by both the Southern and Northern schools of Chinese painting, characterized by an idealistic, unrealistic, and dreamlike quality. Jeong Seon’s innovative approach merged realistic perspectives with metaphysical truths, giving rise to the concept of "true-view landscape" painting. His masterpiece, Geumangjeondo, created in 1734, is based on precise sketches of Mount Geumgang. In this painting, he expertly arranges rocky and earthen mountains in a Taiji formation, capturing the entirety of the mountain from a bird's-eye perspective in a single composition. This piece is a foundational work in Korean landscape painting. Jeong Seon's distinctive technique, which involved applying the brush vertically, further emphasizes his unique style and solidifies his legacy in the art world.

The talent of these Korean artists in landscape painting is truly exceptional, showcasing their mastery of technique and a deep understanding of nature's beauty. Each painting brings to life the rich textures and vibrant colors of the Korean landscape, evoking a sense of serenity and connection to the outdoors. I envision creating a special area in my home that celebrates Korean art, where I can display all three of these stunning pieces. This collection would not only enhance my living space but also serve as a constant reminder of the beauty and artistry of Korean culture.

Bibliography

Jeon, Seong Ho. “Giants of Joseon Art: 3 Korean Painters You Must Know.” Best of Korea, 28 June 2024, https://bestofkorea.com/giants-of-joseon-art-3-korean-artists-you-must-know/#:~:text=Jeong%20Seon%2C%20Kim%20Hong-do%2C%20and%20Shin%20Yun-bok%20are,marking%20an%20important%20era%20of%20Korean%20painting%20history.

Lee, Soyoung. “Art of the Korean Renaissance, 1400–1600: Essay: The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History.” The Met’s Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History, 1 Jan. 2010, https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/kore/hd_kore.htm

The National Museum of Korea, "Kim Hongdo, album of genre paintings," in Smarthistory, August 19, 2022, accessed December 1, 2024, https://smarthistory.org/kim-hongdo-album-of-genre-paintings/