The Ecological Dimension in Korean Literati Painting

Subject matter drawn from nature constituted a crucial dimension for literati painters in Korea. Landscapes of mountains and rivers, birds set in idyllic natural surroundings, puppies napping under a tree, fish meandering in water, and the four noble plants were among the favorite themes painted by the Korean literati. Rooted in Daoist and Confucian theories on art, recreating the true essence of natural subjects was believed to be a way to become one with the universe，and through the process ones spirit was enlightened and elevated to new levels. As such，through the use of the brush, the creative process transmitted the ‘qifrom the universe into concrete form, and the practice of painting was a way to cultivate the mind and preserve the inner spirit inherited from heaven. Such views on painting were formulated in China as early as the fifth century and fully developed by the eleventh century, which were subsequently transmitted to the literati circles in Korea. The Unified Silla scholar Choe Chi-w?n (857-?) even remarked about the effective impact of painting over writing, and by the twelfth century, important art theoretical views by Chinese authors were introduced to Korea to circulate among the literati class of painters and to form the philosophical basis of their painting. This paper will examine the ecological dimension in art theoretical writings in China and their historical development and application in Korea among the literati class.