By Diplomacy Journal Kayla Lee Ilwolobongdo (日月五峯圖) is a traditional painting from the Joseon Dynasty and an important work of art that symbolizes the authority of the king. It is widely known as a folding screen placed behind the throne in palaces, and is characterized by a scene depicting the sun, moon, five mountain peaks, and the turbulent waves below. It symbolizes the long life of the king and queen and a prayer for the country's prosperity. Natural elements and symbols The sun and moon symbolize the king and queen in Ilwolobongdo, and they are symmetrical to each other, representing the
By Diplomacy Journal Kayla Lee Among traditional Korean paintings, Goeseokmorando, or 怪石牡丹圖 has attracted the attention of many for its unique beauty and deep philosophical meaning. The painting depicts a strange rock found in nature, Goeseok, and a peony, which symbolizes wealth and honor, and it ehas become one of the most representative genres of the Joseon Dynasty. The history of Goseokmorando begins with the genre's development in the late Joseon Dynasty, especially from the 17th to the 19th centuries. This was a time when traditional landscape painting and flower-and-bird painting were f