Returned to lender The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
Scenes from the cycle of life
Not on view
Painted screens that illustrate major milestones in the lives of high-ranking government officials were popular during the late Joseon period. From right to left, each panel of this screen shows one celebratory event: 1) first birthday; 2) taking the state exam for government office; 3) wedding; 4) three-day celebration of passing the state exam; 5) appointment as royal archivist; 6) traveling as provincial governor; 7) traveling as second-rank minister; 8) traveling as first-rank minister; 9) sixtieth wedding anniversary; 10) sixtieth anniversary of entering government service.
Each scene is portrayed in lively detail with figures engaged in particular activities or celebrations, placed within or against architectural and natural settings. The bird’s-eye view affords observers an expansive perspective on the lifetime of the protagonist.
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This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.
