A powerful dynasty that lasted hundreds of years, the Joseon dynasty rejected Buddhism, turning instead to Neo-Confucianism. Magnificent palaces, shrines, and temples continued to be built.
1392–1897 C.E.
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Album of Poems on “Eight Views of the Xiao and Xiang Rivers”
Album of Poems on “Eight Views of the Xiao and Xiang Rivers” exemplifies the unity of the three arts—painting, poetry, and calligraphy—in the early Joseon Dynasty.
Portrait of Choe Ikhyeon
Why does this portrait depict Joseon official Choe Ikhyeon wearing a thick winter robe and a fur hat?
Sajeongjeon Edition of The Annotated Zizhi Tongjian
The Annotated Zizhi Tongjian came to be known as the definitive “textbook for government,” guiding Joseon kings on how to rule properly
Yi Myeonggi, Portrait of Kang Sehwang
With his proper attire and solemn posture, Kang Sehwang is the model of a dignified Joseon official.
Cheonggu Gwanhaebang Chongdo, or “Map for the National Defense of Korea”
Cheonggu Gwanhaebang Chongdo, or “Map for National Defense of Korea,” records the locations of military bases throughout the Joseon Dynasty
Blue-and-white Porcelain Jar with Plum, Bamboo, and Bird Design
The plum, bamboo, and bird design became one of the most popular designs on Joseon blue-and-white porcelain vessels
Jeong Sanggi, Dongguk Daejido (“Complete Map of the Eastern Country”)
Dongguk Daejido, or “Complete Map of the Eastern Country," is a comprehensive map of the Korean territory in the mid-eighteenth century.
Four Preaching Buddhas
The representative example of a sixteenth-century Buddhist painting commissioned by the royal Joseon court.
Buncheong Jar with cloud and dragon design
This buncheong jar with cloud and dragon design integrates the Goryeo tradition with elements acquired through cultural exchange.
Yun Du-seo, Portrait of Sim Deukgyeong
Portrait of Sim Deukgyeong is an exemplary work that demonstrates how a gifted artist can capture a person’s spirit in a portrait.
Gujangbok, a ceremonial robe symbolizing the king’s prestige
A “gujangbok” is a ceremonial robe worn by the Joseon king is adorned with nine symbols representing the consummate authority and virtue of the king.
Kim Jeonghui’s calligraphy of Kim Yugeun’s Autobiography of Mukso
Very few original examples of Kim Jeonghui’s regular script have survived, making this work especially valuable.
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