Korean Jakhodo Minhwa Folk Scroll Painting

A Korean folk art painting mounted as a hanging scroll. The watercolor on paper was likely dated from 1930-40s. The work depicts a "Jakhodo" theme (Tiger and Magpie theme; The letter “jak” means magpie; “ho” means tiger; and “do” means painting), one of the most popular motif in Korean art, from folk painting to ceramics. In Korean culture, tiger symbolizes a spirited power o 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 up to the magpies perching on the pine branches.
Traditionally, folky minhwa paintings of this theme is displayed, often pasted 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 32.5" x 21", overall size 54" x 25". Retains its storage box that measures 30" x 3" x 3".
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.