'Tiger Painting' exhibited at the National Museum of Korea's permanent exhibition hall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy Reporter Seo Mideum] To celebrate the 'Year of the Tiger,' the National Museum of Korea is unveiling new tiger paintings. This is the second special exhibition following the 'Tiger Paintings' exhibition that ended on the 1st of this month. A representative from the National Museum of Korea said, "Our ancestors kept items related to tigers in their homes to pray for peace," adding, "We hope people feel the vigorous 'tiger energy' by looking at tigers in paintings, books, and clothing."
Thirteen sets comprising 18 pieces of materials will be displayed in the Calligraphy and Painting Room on the 2nd floor of the National Museum of Korea's permanent exhibition hall. The exhibition will be replaced in early next month and will be on view until September 4.
Among the exhibits are some pieces from the 'Lee Kun-hee Collection,' donated by the family of the late Samsung Chairman Lee Kun-hee, including the 'Tiger Painting Folding Screen,' 'Leopard Skin Pattern Folding Screen,' and 'Horyeopdo' (Hunting Painting).
The tiger painting folding screen, estimated to be a 19th-century artwork, depicts a tiger and a leopard showing their bravery against a backdrop of pine trees and unusual rocks. Magpies, which frequently appear in old tiger paintings, are scattered throughout the scene.
The leopard skin pattern folding screen is a work depicting leopard fur in ink on a pale yellow background. It is said that leopard skins were items specially bestowed by Joseon kings to their officials.
Horyeopdo is a painting capturing Manchu people hunting on horseback.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy a whimsical tiger painting featuring the king's character 王 (Wang) above the round eyes, as well as tiger chest badges (heungbae), which are decorative items worn on the chest or back. Tiger heungbae were reportedly worn by military officials of rank Jeong 3-pum or higher.
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