Yun Duseo

SOUTH KOREA, South Jeolla, Haenam; Joseon dynasty

Also known as Hyoeon or Jongae, Yun Duseo was a painter born in a family of painters. Alongside Jeong Seon and Sim Sajeong, he was one of the most well-known literary painters during the late Joseon dynasty (1392–1910). As a government official, Yun focused on doing research, composing poems and calligraphy, in addition to painting. In his old age, he returned to his hometown and went into retreat in Haenam Lotus Cave. He authored several works including those on astronomy and mathematics.
Yun’s works presented the popular Namjong (Southern) school of painting in the late Joseon dynasty. His painting of wood cutting scenes, as well as his depictions of women attracted a lot of attention. These works became the standards for folk painting after the mid-18th century.
During the early part of his career in painting, Yun illustrated landscapes. In addition, he was proficient in portraying horses and figures. To draw human figures, animals, and plants, he would observe them all day in order to create life-like representations. His paintings include Self-Portrait, Old Monk, White Horse, and Portrait of Sim Deukgyeong. His son, Yun Deokheui, and grandson, Yun Yong, inherited his distinct painting style.