DAY 217

ART AROUND THE WORLD

“Tiger and Magpie” Paintings

NEW YEAR’S GREETINGS FROM KOREA

Almost every culture—through art, music, or myth—gives certain animals human-like characteristics and abilities. In the South Korean folk art paintings called minhwa, popular during the Chosun period (1392–1910), the images of the tiger and the magpie contain many powerful and protective qualities. These two animals are often paired in paintings, as the magpie is a bringer of joy and good tidings, and the tiger is a powerful symbol used to repel evil spirits. Traditionally, the chattering bird is usually depicted in paintings just out of reach of the frustrated tiger’s claws in the upper branches of a pine tree (a symbol of the New Year).

The magpie and the tiger represent a variety of superstitions and beliefs. Some claim the tiger is a noble, fierce, and loyal guardian and a friend to man. The magpie is alternately seen as a noisy thief or a harbinger of good luck. During the 19^th century, tiger and magpie paintings were hung at the entrances of homes or painted directly on the front gates, replaced every year on New Year’s Day to ensure prosperity for the following year. Today, the images of the tiger and the magpie can be seen in the most unconventional of places, from postage stamps and tourist items to celadon pottery and tattoo designs! —SBR