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| "Beyond Folding Screens 2," a survey of 51 pre-and early-modern decorative folding screens, is offered at the AmorePacific Museum of Art (APMA) in Yongsan District, Seoul. Courtesy of APMA |
By Park Han-sol
Decorative folding screens that once embellished the interiors of the royal palaces and working-class households during the 1392-1910 Joseon Kingdom have been brought to the fore at the ongoing exhibition hosted by the AmorePacific Museum of Art (APMA) in Seoul's Yongsan District.
"Beyond Folding Screens 2," which comes five years after the museum's initial showcase of centuries-old relics, is a survey of 51 rare screens produced between the late Joseon period and the early modern era.
"Since folding screens are often placed at the rear of a room, the term 'byeongpung' (folding screen) is sometimes used in Korea to refer to an object that has no major presence or impact," the museum said in its statement. "This exhibition, however, aims to shed light on the value and meaning of folding screens as a visual medium."
The 19th-century "The Sun, Moon and Sacred Peaches" is a panorama depicting a peach tree against the backdrop of the sun, the moon and crashing waves. The sacred symbols of nature featured in the majestic vista suggest that the folding screen was used in the royal court to convey the wish for a long, peaceful reign.
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| A late 18th-century silk folding screen "Pyeongyangseong Fortress" / Courtesy of APMA |
Another highlight of the show includes the eight-panel silk folding screen, "Pyeongyangseong Fortress," produced in the late 18th century. The relic, designated as a treasure by the government, portrays in a detailed bird's eye view the prospering city of Pyeongyang ― the capital of present-day North Korea ― as the cultural, military and diplomatic hub.
"Various Animals" is a 19th-century paper screen that catches one's eyes for its intriguing subjects ― 86 pairs of realistically rendered creatures sprawled across its 10 panels. It's almost like taking a look at a page from an animal encyclopedia.
In addition to animals like monkeys, lions and elephants ― considered exotic beasts in Korea at that time ― mythical creatures such as "haetae" (lion-like horned creature) and "bonghwang" (Korean phoenix) make appearances.
"Beyond Folding Screens 2" runs through April 30 at the AmorePacific Museum of Art.
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