Artwork
Portrait of Yun Dongseom (1710–1795)
Portrait of Yun Dongseom (1710–1795) is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1799 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This painted portrait depicts Yun Dongseom (1710–1795), a notable figure from the Joseon Dynasty.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
By pairing Yun with this bird, the painting transcends a simple physical likeness to represent the subject's virtuous life and esteemed social status.
Created in 1797 by an anonymous artist, this portrait depicts Yun Dongseom (1710–1795), a man of the late Joseon period. The work's iconography is defined by the inclusion of a crane alongside the subject. In East Asian artistic tradition, the crane serves as a potent symbol of longevity, wisdom, and high moral character, often associated with scholars and officials.
By pairing Yun with this bird, the painting transcends a simple physical likeness to represent the subject's virtuous life and esteemed social status. The composition functions as a commemorative image, likely produced shortly after his death to honor his legacy and embody the Confucian ideals he upheld during his lifetime.
History & Provenance
The portrait of Yun Dongseom was painted in 1797 by an anonymous artist, as recorded in the work's catalog entry and confirmed by its inclusion in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection. The painting, classified as a portrait genre work, depicts the subject alongside symbolic elements such as a crane. Its creation history is tied to this single dated instance in 1797, and it has been part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's holdings since its acquisition, forming the core of its documented provenance.
The Portrait of Yun Dongseom (1710–1795) is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it is recorded as part of the institution's holdings. According to the available cataloging data, the painting's location is listed as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and it is attributed to an anonymous painter. The work is dated 1797.
No specific accession number, inventory designation, or details of past exhibitions are recorded in the consulted sources, so the precise catalog identifier and any display history beyond its presence in the museum's collection cannot be confirmed from the available documentation.
Overview
This painted portrait depicts Yun Dongseom (1710–1795), a notable figure from the Joseon Dynasty. The subject is shown seated formally, with a composed expression, against a simple gold background. His attire, including an elaborate robe and distinctive headwear, signifies his social standing and the period's sartorial customs. The artwork provides insight into the visual representation of individuals of rank during the 18th century.
Technique & Style
The composition places Yun Dongseom centrally, seated on a low platform, with his hands calmly resting upon his knees. This posture conveys a sense of dignity and composure. The background is kept intentionally sparse, featuring a plain gold field that highlights the figure, subtly framed by a narrow blue border at the lower edge. This minimalist setting directs the viewer's attention entirely to the subject and his elaborate attire.
Artist & collection
