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Directory: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Korean: Paintings: Pre 1900: Item # 1490894

Please refer to our stock # 1552 when inquiring.

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Korean Art and Antiques
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New York, NY 10036
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The only authentic pair of 19th Century Korean paintings of Generals ever offered for sale. Such painted figures were popular guardians of business because of their two-thousand-year history as paradigms of victory and loyalty. This pair, because of its high quality, was undoubtedly commissioned by a prominent 19th century Korean merchant to bless, protect, and bring prosperity to their business. There would have been a shaman ritual at the consecration of this pair of paintings at the place of business. On the right is the legendary 3rd century General Kwan-u, instantly identified by his crane feather fan. He is attended by a boy (Dongja) serving him the mythical peaches of immortality. On the left is Janggun, the ancient mythological general. He is holding a military trident. There are many 20th century reproductions of these types of paintings. Authentic Joseon Dynasty examples like this exist only in museums. And even in museums, a pair like this is very rare. You can discern authenticity by the material and quality, such as fine hand-woven silk and mineral pigments that give warmth and depth and are vivid but not garish like modern chemical paints. The originals like this are valued not only for their superior artistry, but also for the connection they provide to the culture and spirituality of ancient authentic Korean shamanism. Much of modern Korean art and culture is rooted in shamanism. Its influence pervades Korean society, whether or not one is aware of it. This is not art for art’s sake. Within the broad realm of Korean folk art, shaman art expresses the deepest desires of the Korean people. That is why these wonderful creations speak so directly to persons of all persuasions, even today. Frame: 40 x 26 inches, 102 x 66 cm. Painting: 34.5 x 20.5 inches, 88 x 52 cm.