Artist Hwang Samyong discusses his artwork Pebbles, which will be on view at the Asian Art Museum as part of the exhibition Mother-of-Pearl Lacquerware from Korea.
An introduction to Korean Confucianism and related architecture.
Discover what was found inside a Korean Buddhist sculpture.
Buddhism has deeply influenced the character and evolution of Asian civilization over the past 2,500 years. It is based on the teachings of a historical figure, Siddhartha Gautama, who lived around the fifth century BCE. As it moved across Asia, Buddhism absorbed indigenous beliefs and incorporated a wide range of imagery, both local and foreign, into its art and religious practices. Buddhism continues to evolve as a religion in many parts of the world.
Buddhism became the official religion of one of Korea's early kingdoms in 372, after a priest arrived from China with Buddhist images and scriptures. From the time of its introduction it had the enthusiastic support of the rulers and the aristocracy. By the middle of the 500s, Buddhism had been officially accepted by all three kingdoms that reigned in Korea at that time.
Korea is a mountainous peninsula surrounded by the sea on three sides. It shares its northern borders with China and Russia, and its closest southern neighbor is Japan, which lies across a narrow strait. Learn more.
The Goryeo dynasty (918–1392) of Korea was a period of intense religious fervor. Its people—from the rulers to their lowest subjects—were ardent believers in Buddhism.
Learn more about the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910) of Korea.
Explore images and stories of animals from across Asia. This selection of resources support the Animal Tales storytelling school program at the Asian Art Museum.
In this lecture series, renowned scholars from across the nation will discuss the manipulation of art by Asian rulers across cultures and time.
