문인석 조선|文人石 朝鮮|Tomb guardian in form of a civil official

Unknown

19th century · Granite · Asian Art

During the Joseon dynasty in Korea, the commemoration of ancestors through ritual took on a new significance. Stone sculptures of human figures and animals were placed around grave mounds to honor and guard the tomb. This example was one of a pair. The figure wears the robe and hat of a civil official. He holds an audience tablet, lifted with both hands and held below his chin. This pose, along with his slightly hunched shoulders, indicates respect and humility.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th century

Medium

Granite

Culture

Korea

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

From the Collection of Nina and Gordon Bunshaft, Bequest of Nina Bunshaft, 1994