Poem Orchid and Bamboo by Yangchon

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Poem Orchid and Bamboo by Yangchon

1999

Korean, born 1964

Son Man-jin is one of the most innovative calligraphers in Korea. An intensive study of calligraphy and Chinese and Korean classics led the literati artist to his own unique style. Each character on this screen appears full of life-animated, yet not excessive.

The artist's subject is a poem composed in 1405 by Yangchon (born Kwon Geun, 1352-1409), a famous civil servant and poet. The poem compares the beauty and excellence of orchids and bamboo to the rule of King Taejong. Son Man-jin's powerful calligraphy captures the zealous spirit of the people in the Choson dynasty, who founded their own country under the wise king.

Six panel screen; ink on paper

70 7/8 x 165 3/8 in. (180 x 420 cm) Overall calligraphy only

Gift of Mary Ann and Henry James

99.68

Provenance:

Not currently on view

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