What Art Forms Are Typical of the Korean Culture?
Korea's vibrant artistic heritage includes a variety of different art forms. Korean ceramics draw praise across Asia, and the nation boasts rich traditions of painting, sculpture, decorative and performing arts. Artists frequently work with natural and spiritual motifs and create work known for a calm, contemplative sense of beauty.
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Painting
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Korean painters have been creating work since the Bronze Age. Important ancient works include the the tomb murals from the kingdom of Koguryo, from the 4th-7th centuries. Earlier paintings display a Chinese influence, while later work shows a more uniquely Korean style. Artists have traditionally depicted scenery, natural items such as plum and bamboo, and people. Calligraphy is also a common and much-loved art.
Ceramics
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Koreans value ceramics as one of nation's preeminent art forms. The earliest Korean ceramic objects are Neolithic earthenware vessels, which date from 7,000 BC. However, Korea wins perhaps the most fame for its celadon pottery, which scholars say reached its high point during the 12th century.
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Sculpture
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Korean sculpture often features Buddhist themes and deities. According to scholars, this type of sculpture reached its apex during the Unified Silla dynasty (668--935). Sculptures are frequently carved out of wood, jade, and stone.
Decorative Arts
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Korea is also home to a vibrant tradition of decorative arts, including embroidery, metalwork, mother-of-pearl-inlay, knot craft (called Maedeup), bamboo blind weaving, paper crafts, jade carving, fan-making, basketry and other types of reed weaving. Artists apply these techniques to jewelery, cosmetic cases, trinkets, devotional objects and other items.
Performing Arts
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The performing arts, a prominent feature of Korean life, include traditions of both folk and court music forms, as well as court dances, ritual dances, puppetry and drama. Many traditional Korean arts combine these forms, such as in Namsadang-nori, which mixes humor, drumming, acrobatics and mask plays to form something like a Western circus.
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