Sehando (Winter Scene) by Kim Jeong-hui

Chusa Kim Jeong-hui (1786–1856) was a scholar of the Silhak school who, influenced by Qing evidential learning, studied epigraphy; an outstanding artist, he created the Chusa style of calligraphy and was a master of literati painting. This is his best-known work, 69.2 cm wide and 23 cm high. He painted it in 1844 while in exile on Jejudo Island, and at its end is a text in his own hand. In it he likens to the pine and the cypress the character of his pupil Yi Sang-jeok, who, not forgetting the bond between teacher and pupil, obtained precious books for him from Beijing, and says he painted it in thanks. A single house stands at the centre with trees to left and right, and the surroundings are left empty, showing extreme restraint and simplicity. At the upper right are the title Sehando, the words 'for Useon to view' and 'Wandang', with seals. Rough, dry brushwork gives the house and old trees a bleak air that conveys the cold of winter with clarity and austerity. The dry brush, the gradations of ink and the spare composition reveal the inner world of an artist of high integrity. Reacting against artificial technique and ornamental virtuosity, it shows through extreme restraint and omission the essence of literati painting, and is regarded as the representative literati painting of late Joseon.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Designation

National Treasure · 국보