Korean art can be traced back to the Lelang area of to 108B.C. Changes in Dynasties and rulers, of course, brought about change in the art. However, Korea has been able to produce great art work from various artists and various genres. These works are well preserved and displayed, so the world can be reminded of the contributions to art that Korea has made.

10. A Cat and a Butterfly (By: Kim Hong-do)

Commonly known as “Danwon”, painter Kim Hong-do (1745-c. 1806) was a prominent artist in the late Joseon Dynasty. He grew up in what is now called Ansan, in South Korea and was an affiliate of the Gimhae Kim clan. He studied calligraphy under one of the most famous teachers of his time, Pyoam Kang Sehwang. He painted a portrait of King Jeongio as a member of the “Dohwaseo”. This was the name of the court of the official royal painters.

“A Cat and A Butterfly” is a late 18th century work of Kim Hong-do. The name that is given to the painting is actually, “Hwangmyonongjeopdo”. Although some may state that there is no true translation, others state that it can be translated in to “A yellow cat teasing a butterfly”. The painting depicts a tabby that appears to be playing with a butterfly, in a field of flowers. The cat appears to be looking at the butterfly with adoring eyes.

9. Avalokiteshvara painting from the Korean Goryeo Dynasty

The “Avalokiteshvara” is a work that was painted using ink and colors on a silk, hanging scroll. Created in 1310, during the Goryeo Dynasty, the painting stands more than 16 ft. tall and 9 ft. wide. The creator of this work is still unknown. It is stored in the Kagami Jinjya Temple in Japan.

This picture is a representation of the Buddha of Compassion, who possesses infinite wisdom. In the particular painting he is shown as the Water-Moon Avalokiteshvara. He is perched atop some rocks, as the water swirls around his feet. It is believed to represent his island home of Nakan. This deity has many forms and is the subject of many paintings completed during the Goryeo Dynasty.

8. A Dream of Amusement in the Garden of Peach Blossoms (By: Ahn Gyeon )

Another painter of the Joseon period, Ahn Gyeon was also a member of the Dohwaseo. As an official painter of the Joseon court, he was charged with painting a portrait of Mongyu dowondo for Prince Anpyeong. The painting, which was completed in 1447, is housed at Tenri University.

Prince Anpyeong is also the inspiration behind the painting, “A Dream of Amusement in the Garden of Peach Blossoms”. After hearing the recitation of a poem by a Chinese poet, it became popular belief that peach blossoms represented a peaceful existence. After having a dream about walking in a field of the fragrant blossoms, the Prince hired Ahn Gyeon to create this work.

7. Two Men Wrestle (By: Kim Hong-do)

Kim Hong-do was also very prominent during the Choson Dynasty. This late 18th century work of his depicts villagers gathering to watch a wrestling match between two men. The proper name for the painting is “Ssirum”, which translates to the word “wrestling”.

This is one of Hong-do’s most praised works. The fact that he painting depicts what commoner’s ok part in during their daily lives has always been a topic. As well, his use simple strokes and background was a change from his usual style of painting. There has often been reference to his use of numbers to create balance in the painting.

6. Joseon Dynasty (By: Owon)

Known by his pen name, Owon, Jan Seung-ep (1843-1897) painted Korea during the late Joseon Dynasty. His painting skills were honed during his young years, as an orphan. He began to perfect his skills when he resided with a Korean aristocrat by the name of Yi Ung-heon, during his 20’s. Extremely gifted in his craft, he was capable of producing works of all genres. He was one of the “3 Wons” of the Joseon period, along with Hyewon and Danwon.

The proper name of the painting is listed as “Sansu inmuldo”. When the title is translated, it means “the picture of the man in the landscape”. The paintings title is literal since it is of a man standing in the middle of a landscape.

5. Gyeondo (By: Byeon Sang- Byeok)

Byeon Sang-Byeok was a painter during the later years of the Joseon Dynasty. His ability to capture the details of the subjects of his drawings is what made him one of the most celebrated artists of his time. Working under the pen name, Hwajae, the painter’s dates of birth and death are unknown. However, it is known that he was a member of the Dohwaseo.

“Gyeondo: translates to “painting of a dog”. It is believed to have been painted in 1730. In this painting the artist captures every detail of the animal’s furry coat and makes it seem as though the dog is having a happy memory by painting it with what appears to be a smile. The detailed brush strokes give the painting such realness, it isn’t uncommon for one to have to fight the urge to stroke the animal to see if it feels as soft as it looks.

4. A View of Geumgang (By: Jeong Seon)

Also known by his pen name Gyeomjae, Jeon Seon (1676-1759) was a landscape painter from Korea. His pen name translates to “humble study”. A famous painter during the Joseon era, he was one of the artist that took the chance to separate himself from traditional Chinese styles of painting. Recommended by an aristocratic neighbor for court, he was given an official position.

The painting, “Geumgang jeondo”, is a work that depicts a landscape of North Korea. Done in ink and watercolor, the painting was created in 1734. The picture is of the Diamond Mountains. It is housed in the Ho-Am art Museum;

3. Mother Dog (By: Yi Ahm)

Yi Ahm (1507-1566) was a Korean painter during the Joseon Dynasty. This painting, “Mother Dog and Puppies”, was created in the first half of the 16th century. A mother dog is depicted in the painting, looking on lovingly as her pups rest. This painting is housed in the National Museum of Korea.

2. A Boat Ride (By: Shin Yun-bok)

Shin Yun-bok was also known by his pen name Hyewons. One of the members of the Dohwaseo for a period of time, he was an artist during the Joseon Dynasty. “A Boat Ride” was painted in 1805. The painting has also been referred to as the “Boating Party. It depicts high class men “making time” with female entertainers of lower social standing. The painting itself was intended to be satiric.

1. Portrait of a Beauty (By: Hyewon)

Hyewon’s proper name is Shin Yun-bok. Born in Korea in 1758, he was a painter during the Joseon Dynasty and one of the “3 Wons”. Hyewon’s father and grandfather were both painters and he inherited their gifts and trade. However, the erotic nature of his works caused him to be expelled from the Dohwaseo.

“Portrait of a Beauty” was painted on silk. It depicts what was the ideal standard of beauty during that era. The most noticeable feature of the painting is the realistic detail of the hanbok that the beauty is wearing. The concept of making a woman the focus of a painting at the time was considered to be revolutionary. The work has since been the inspiration of both literary work and film.

As you can see, art in Korea spans multiple genres. Where some artists specialized in landscapes, others were genius at capturing the human form. There were some who were experts at painting animals, while others used spirituality to create masterpieces. Some may find it ironic that many of the most celebrated pieces of art in Korean history are all from around the same dynasty. Not to mention that many of them were produced by artists who were good enough to work in the royal court.

It is safe to say, that the art from Korea’s past, still influences the art that is being produced by the nation today. A land of culture, many of the paintings were a source of passing along the lands history to ensure that it made it into the future. There is no surprise in seeing the same styles being used; the mix of calligraphy, inks, canvases…it’s all visible in present day artwork from Korea. And just s Korean art left its mark back then so that it would be remembered now; today’s Korean artists will do the same and be remembered in the future.

Some of the most famous African paintings are:

1. The Inevitable

This is one of the finest creations by African Artist Ibrahim El Salahi. Salahi has infused thoughts of modernism along with the Sudanese traditions to make an art form, which has a universal appeal.

This painting is more or less a depiction of the time he spent in prison. The nine sections in this painting represent the different phases of his incarceration, and it also symbolizes the civil upheaval and strife that devastated Sudan after the collapse of British rule. Arab and Coptic motifs have been extensively used to give a feel of distorted faces. Arms and fists depict an uprising against injustice.

Though the painting is in a monochrome format (Black and White), yet the lack of color is not felt. With absolute no-negative space, this piece of art is bold, sharp, progressive and well composed. It is a visual treat.

2. Semekazi

Willie Bester has tried to touch-base an important theme in his creation named Semakazi. Bester is a yet another progressive thinker who has tried to depict the condition of migrant workers in South Africa. The art work outlines the fact that during those times, none of the migrant workers received a pension or a secure and respectable retirement, once their tenure was over.

This painting is a collage of images depicting various aspects of his life. At the centre, there is Semekazi’s bed which has been shown in the form of a prison, in which he has been captivated. In the foreground, there is a bible which has been connected to the bed by a chain. The illustration symbolizes that during those times, African nations were run on Christian beliefs. To the left of the bed, there is an image of a family which clearly states that Willie always aspired to lead a family life.

3. Sida

Sida is a world renowned creation by an African artist named Cheri Samba. Like most of his creations, Cheri has tried to address one of the most vital aspects i.e. the political scenario of the African continent. In this painting, he has shown that the elite class of African continent is carrying out a procession. The painting has a subtle hint of sexuality which has always been an important element of Cheri’s paintings. African women in semi-clad state are throwing away their lingerie, and such a depiction brings forth the occurrence of a kind of sexual oppression, which people may have been facing during those times. Quite a bold member of Cheri’s paintings, Sida also features textual content which highlights his innate aggressive nature. The painting represents a strong sense of depth and an eye for composition and color as the painting has a ‘perspective’ look and feel.

4. Healing of Abiku children

This intricate piece of work has been created by the world renowned Nigerian painter who works under the pseudonym of Twins Seven Seven. It is influenced by the Yoruba mythology and culture to a large extent. Twins Seven Seven has included human figures along with one of the most revered Yoruba gods, with magical powers to cure people. The painting depicts a village scene where kids from far flung places have been brought to get cured. In this painting, one by one, each kid is getting cured with the help of solutions prepared by the healer. The brown hues and circular lines highlight the orthodox nature of the artist and his strong belief in the traditions of his civilization. Most importantly, this painting depicts the strong inclination of people to associate to the Yoruba gods for respite to their problems.

5. Women

‘Women’ is an extension of Nicholas Nana Yaw Kowalski’s personal attitude towards life. This oil painting is dazzling, dramatic, thought provoking and quirky. His works has always been woven around themes such as god and family. Perhaps he has a strong belief in the sanctity of the two parts of man’s life.

‘Women’ has influences of modernism with the soul of traditional African style of painting. The color palette and strokes depict an influence of traditional African painting style. However, the geometric designs and sharp contours symbolize a progressive thought process. Through the painting, the artist has reasoned out a view point where he feels that people can stay together yet have their distinct tastes/ likings, and lead a happy life. He believes there is absolutely no need to part away and live a ‘Nuclear Family’ life.

Of late, he has created some of the most amazing pieces of work.

6. To listen to reason

Mary Ogembo, from Kenya is a famous painter and has been working for quite some years. Being a woman, she is always inclined to work on themes related to women. She has carved a niche for herself for depicting the beauty of African women through oil paintings. In fact, Mary Ogembo has mostly depicted the life of African women, their struggles and their duties through her creations.

In this painting, the green color in the background symbolizes growth and development. The brown hues in the painting depict the calmness and stability. Orange hues depict signs of vitality. The girl, standing in the foreground with her eyes closed has ornaments around her neck. She even has ornaments on her hands and this clearly represents signs of prosperity. To put it short, Mary has showcased the spirit of African women in this painting.

7. Disagreement

Disagreement is yet another stupendous creation of Kenya’s one of the most illustrated artist Martin Kamuyu. Martin Kamuyu started painting at a very young age and he did that in free time. After finishing his daily chores, he would often paint and then ornament his paintings with plant leaves, charcoal and even egg yolk. Later on, Martin developed his distinct style as he began to represent issues from lives of people in his paintings. Martin has always adhered to themes pertaining to education, culture and lives.

In Disagreement, Martin Kamuyu has tried to depict the chaos in a common man’s mind when he seems to be caught in his own thoughts. Shades of white and red represent passion and purity as two different aspects that seem to exert pressure on the subject. As a result of which, the subject appears to be in a state of dilemma.

8. In Market

In ‘In Market’, Jeff Wambugu has wonderfully captured a busy market street scene. There is a wooden cart in the foreground. A woman is carrying fruits on her back. Another woman in the background looks warily at the woman with fruits. The green and brown hues in the foreground represent strife for stability, for a better income and the dark blue hues in the back ground depict static past.

Like the rest of contemporaries of his time, Jeff Wambugu has always tried to capture the essence of a common man’s life in his paintings. Being a keen observer, Jeff Wambugu has used his observations as key elements to depict the seemingly mundane activities of life. ‘Slice of Life’ themes such as market scenes, roadside shops, Paper boy etc have been meticulously depicted by this artist. Perhaps, the other common element of his creations is the optimistic approach towards life.

9. Dusk

Dusk represents the rural life of Africa. In this painting, Shine Tani has depicted a mother carrying her child and a water container, while at the same time, she is herding the cattle. The artist has tried to showcase the hardships of rural African women and their spirit to endure and go on for the purpose of living. There is a prominence of blue and mauve color which represents the color ambience during dusk.

Shine Tani had a tough upbringing. Since he belonged to a poor family, he was mostly involved in earning bread for the family. Whatever he learnt or grasped about art was through his elder siblings. To support his family, Shine Tani kept switching between menial jobs and even resorted to street begging. It was during one of his daily ordeals that he realized his talent and thereon, he got involved into it. Most of his paintings depict his experiences of his struggle in life.

10. Woman in Kitenge

The specialty or uniqueness of this painting is the usage of bright colors with distinct layering. The strokes are strong and prominent. ‘Woman in Kitenge’ depicts a woman in deep thought and wonder. She seems to be preoccupied with thoughts related to daily chores and the members of her family. The most striking feature of the painting is the eyes of the woman. The woman’s eyes showcase a feeling of wonder. Despite the fact that strong strokes have been used, there is softness in the woman’s face.

Jimnah Kimani is a prominent painter from the African continent. His paintings have been based on human figures and their lives. By using bright colors and strong strokes, Jimnah Kimani has depicted the different emotions in an ordinary man’s life and how these emotions tempt him to take certain actions. Due to his offbeat representation of life, his works have always been popular across the planet.

20. Female Nude Reclining on a Divan

• Artist: Eugene Delacroi
  
• Date: 1825-26

19. Diana and Callisto

• Artist: Aristide Maillol
  
• Date: 1930-38

18. In the Tepidarium

• Artist: Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadem
  
• Date: 1881

17. Phryné before the Aeropagus

• Artist: Jean-Léon Gerome
  
• Date: 1861

16. Danaë

• Artist: Orazio Gentileschi
  
• Date: 1621

15. The Fortune

• Artist: Guido Reni
  
• Date: 1620

14. Female Nude and Pianist

• Artist: Jean Honoré Fragonar
  
• Date: 1799-1800

13. The Sleeping Venus

• Artist: Paul Delvaux
  
• Date: 1799-1800

12. The Nude Maja

• Artist: Eugene Delacroi
  
• Date: 1825-26

11. In the Tepidarium

• Artist: John William Godward
  
• Date: 1913

10. One Second Before Awakening from a Dream Caused by the Flight of a Bee Around a Pomegranate

• Artist: Salvador Dali
  
• Date: 1944

9. Cleopatra

• Artist: Gian Pietro Rizzi
  
• Date: 1520-40

8. Venus Anadyomene

• Artist: Titan
  
• Date: 1525

7. The Birth of Venus

• Artist: William-Adolphe Bouguereau
  
• Date: 1879

6. Chloe

• Artist: Jules-Joseph Lefebvre
  
• Date: 1862

5. The Source

• Artist: Ingres, Jean-Auguste-Dominique
  
• Date: 1856

4. Reclining Nude

• Artist: Jeanloup Sieff
  
• Date: 1969

3. The Three Nymphs

• Artist: Aristide Maillol
  
• Date: 1930-38

2. Overflow

• Artist: Andrew Wyeth
  
• Date: 1969

1. Actaea, the Nymph of the Shore

• Artist: Lord Frederic Leighton
  
• Date: 1868