Artwork Page for White Falcon

Details / Information for White Falcon

White Falcon

1500s

Korea, Joseon dynasty

(1392–1910)
Medium
Hanging scroll; ink and color on silk
Measurements
Overall: 86 x 43.2 cm (33 7/8 x 17 in.); Box: 8.9 x 7.6 cm (3 1/2 x 3 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the Karl B. Goldfield Trust 2026.15
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print
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Did You Know?

In premodern East Asia, the white falcon symbolized an individual of strong moral integrity. Thus, falcon paintings were frequently presented as gifts from the king to meritorious court officials.

Description

The falcon is rendered with highly detailed brushwork, while the surrounding vegetation is depicted with calligraphic lines. This intentional distinction between the carefully managed brushwork of the bird and the expressive treatment of the plants is a key feature of Korean bird-and-flower paintings from the mid-16th and early 17th centuries of the Joseon dynasty (1392–1910) within an established classical style.
A vertically oriented ink and color painting on silk depicts a white falcon perched on a gnarled tree trunk. Against a uniform dark brown background, the bird faces right and looks downward, showcasing scalloped white and gray feathers with one wing partially raised. Muted red and white flowers bloom on thin branches arching above, while sparse foliage grows at the base. The composition highlights the bird’s intricate plumage and the weathered, rustic bark.

White Falcon

1500s

Korea, Joseon dynasty (1392–1910)

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