PHOTOS: Exhibition of traditional Korean fans

By Cho Bo-hee Posted : April 14, 2025, 15:42 Updated : April 14, 2025, 15:42
SEOUL, April 14 (AJP) - An exhibition of traditional Korean fans has opened at the Kansong Art Museum in Seongbuk-dong, Seoul.

The exhibition, which began on April 9, revisits a custom cherished by Koreans who exchanged calendars in winter and fans during the summer months.

Beyond their practical function of offering respite from the heat, fans, particularly during the late Joseon Dynasty, evolved into a popular artistic medium. Calligraphy and intricate paintings adorned these objects, transforming them into portable works of art.

The Kansong Art Museum is presenting 54 select pieces from its extensive collection of 133 fan paintings. Notably, 23 of these artworks are being unveiled to the public for the very first time.
 
An exhibition of traditional Korean fans at the Kansong Art Museum/ Yonhap
 
An exhibition of traditional Korean fans at the Kansong Art Museum/ Yonhap
 
An exhibition of traditional Korean fans at the Kansong Art Museum/ Yonhap
 
Kim Hong-do's inscriptions and paintings on a fan. Kim was a highly celebrated painter of the Joseon Dynasty/ Yonhap
 
Kim Jeong-hui's inscriptions and paintings on a fan/ Yonhap
 
An exhibition of traditional Korean fans at the Kansong Art Museum/ Yonhap

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