Kim Hong-do is the first Korean artist profiled on The Famous Artists. He lived from 1745 to around 1806 during the Joseon period. He spent his childhood years in present-day Ansan, South Korea. He was taught by the famous calligrapher Pyoam Kang Sehwang (1713–1791).
He became one of the official painters of the Joseon court where he drew King Jeongjo's (1752–1800) portrait.
Kim Hong-do, who painted using the name Danwon, is thought to be the first Korean painter to primarily paint scenes depicting the everyday lives of Koreans. His paintings provide great insight into life during the Joseon period but are also treasured for their aesthetic value.
Danwon, along with Hyewon (b. 1758) and Owon (1843-1897) are referred to as the “Three Wons”. However, Danwon, Owon and An Gyeon (15th century) are considered the three greatest painters of the Joseon period.
Ansan holds an annual Danwon Art Festival, named the district of Danwon-gu for the artist and designed a number of public places in imitation of his works.
This painting by Korean artist Kim Hong-do, also known as Danwon, was designated as the 139th National Treasure of South Korea in 1971. Danwon completed the painting when he was 31, during the second half of the Joseon Era. It…
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Great example of Korean art as it is traditionally displayed. The Korean artist Kim Hong-do (1745-c.1806) is most well-known for his depictions of everyday life in Korea during the Joseon Period. Kim Hong-do often painted using the name Danwon. In…
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Charming painting of a cat and a butterfly by Korean artist Kim Hong-do (1745-c.1806) who was more well-known as Danwon. In this painting, an orange and white-striped cat hides among some pretty red flowers stalking a butterfly. I found this…
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