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Chaekgeori: A Timeless Art Form that Transcends Culture and Epochs
When I first discovered chaekgeori, the traditional Korean art form that celebrates the beauty of books, shelves, and various trinkets arranged in a harmonious painting, I was immediately captivated by its breathtaking beauty. It was as if the paintings were speaking to me, telling me tales of the emperors and scholars who loved books and treasures, and of the rich cultural heritage that has been passed down through the ages.
Chaekgeori has its roots in the Chinese tradition of collecting and treasuring classic literature, scrolls adorned with calligraphy or paintings, and other decorative objects. But in Korea, chaekgeori took on a life of its own, becoming an essential aspect of folk painting and gaining widespread popularity among the masses.
I was fascinated by the symbolism and positive wishes embedded in each motif of a chaekgeori painting. Flowers, animals, and fruits all symbolize health, happiness, wealth, and freedom from want, inviting the viewers to indulge in playful identification games within the paintings. The towering bookshelves laden with classic writings and treasured objects were not just decorative but represented the immense value and reverence accorded to these artifacts.
As I looked at the examples of contemporary chaekgeori paintings by…
