Large Framed Antique Korean Jakhodo Minhwa Folk Art Painting

A large Korean folk-art painting framed and glazed in the carved gilt frame. The ink and watercolor on paper was dated circa late 19th century to turn of the 20th century toward the end of Joseon dynasty. The work depicts a "Jakhodo" theme (Tiger and Magpie theme; The word “jak” means magpie; “ho” means tiger; and “do” means painting), one of the most popular motifs in Korean art, from folk painting to ceramics. In Korean culture, tiger symbolizes a spirited power to ward off evils while the magpies are the harbingers of good news. The tiger was often given a somewhat comical instead of fierce facial expression looking at the magpies perching on the pine branches. In this painting, the tiger features an oversized head with bulging eyes. His mouth opens to reveal sharp teeth, but he seems smiling, endearing rather than threatening. The quality of this painting is one of the finest we have handled. The brushstrokes were calculated and well executed with fine details. Lots of attention were paid to the skins and furs of the tiger as well as the pine tree. The use of the colors was bold and effective. The composition, especially the rendition of the expression of the tiger is also truly lovely.
Traditionally, folky minhwa paintings of this theme is displayed on the front door or hanging on a prominent wall in the house during the first month of the lunar calendar. It is believed that it can ward off the evil and harm for the family and ensure a safe and prosperous year ahead.
The image size is 31" x 38".
For a nearly identical Jakhodo painting, see plate 201 illustrated in "Handbook of Korean Art Folk Painting" by Yeol-su Yoon.
For eight "Jakhodo" paintings of various composition made into a floor screen, see Object Number: 2002.21 in the collection of Asian Art Museum San Francisco.