Today, I introduce to you one of the greatest masterpieces in Korean history National treasure No. 180, Sehan do, by Mr. Jeonghie Kim!

This painting reflects Korea’s traditions-philosophical spirit and soul of overcoming harsh conditions with strong will, integrity and unwavering friendship. So I really recommend people to focus on the inherent meaning of this painting, not only the appearance of it.

First of all, on the top right corner of the painting, the word “Sehan do” is written in Chinese characters. That’s the title of this painting. It means “A harsh winter with red and nut pines.”

Next to the word “Sehan do”, you can see the another word. The former two letters signify disciple Lee’s pen name and the latter means ‘appreciate this painting.’ And the two letters next to the ones is “완당,” which is Mr. Jeonghie Kim pen name.

There is a very long writing. That writing explains the reason why he painted this and it also mentions the topic. So there is a very famous expression“It is not until harsh winter comes that you know red and nut pines have unyieldingly noble beliefs and principles.”It is one of Confucius’s sayings which means only at difficult times do we know true friends

During his exile, there was no one left beside him in contrast to his heyday. At that moment, he realized the ones beside him during hard times were true friends!

These pines are evergreen trees. Their invariability is symbolic of Lee.

We can see a small house on the hill as well. Actually he tried to depict my lonely life. As you can see, the door is unique in the way it is curved. That shows his empty soul.

However, what he tried to depict through this painting is not his harsh life. He tried to show the passion and will behind it. After everything, he could overcome my harsh life. So he would like to recommend this painting to viewers when they are under the weather due to the burden of life, as he did.

B: These days, people become tired from the fast-changing society. Some may want to give up or even go back to the very start. Why not visit Korea and refresh yourself by admiring Mr. Kim’s Sehan do? It will instill courage and enthusiasm into your life again.

Lastly, there is an imprint on the right side of this painting. This means, “remember for a long time.” I recommend coming to Korea with friends or loved ones, promising an ever-lasting love or friendship