Sun, Moon, and Five Peaks
Speculated to have been created under the reign of King Taejo (1392-1398) in Korea
Sun, Moon, and Five Peaks, also known as Irworobongo in Korean, is a Korean folding screen that depicts a stylized landscape, well known for being placed behind the King’s throne. There is no known painter of this piece, but the painting was created during the Joseon Dynasty, most likely during the reign of King Taejo. In the painting, there is a red sun, a full moon, 5 mountain peaks, flowing streams, and 2 conifers surrounding the overall structure. Despite its simplistic structure, there is lots of symbolism within the piece, with some speculating the red sun representing the king as the yang, and the moon representing the queen as the yin, due to the painting being placed behind the throne. Others speculate the screen could represent the blessing of Korea by Heaven, with the sun and moon symbolizing balance, with the king sitting in front, in between the sun and moon. In conclusion, the Sun, Moon, and Five Peaks is well known for its symbolism and the significance behind thrones can still be seen today in many royal palaces.