Master Hyujeong

KOREA; Joseon dynasty

Master Hyujeong, also known as Seosan Taesa, became a Seon monk in 1534. When the Japanese invaded Korea in 1592, he rallied his fellow monks and helped to fight off the invaders. He later added to his renown by working to unify the major teachings of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism. This picture of Seosan was painted in the 16th or 17th century. He sits with his legs tucked beneath his body in a wooden chair decorated with carved dragon heads. The finely drawn face, with penetrating eyes and a tightly closed mouth, expresses his strong personality. A red and green monastic robe with patterned hems is draped over his gray inner robe. The elegant robe and the carved chair emphasize Seosan’s status as a highly regarded Seon Master.