What is the thematic context of Family and Fish?

korean landscape tradition, family values, symbolism depth, narrative storytelling, masterpiece legacy

Is Family and Fish under copyright?

No, this artwork is in the public domain.

Order a reproduction of Family and Fish - Impressionistic Realism

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lee, jung-seob
Family and Fish

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Family and Fish

Acrylic On Canvas
WallArt
Impressionistic Realism
41.0 x 28.0 cm
National Museum of Korea

Explore Lee Jung-seob's evocative watercolor 'Family and Fish,' depicting a family scene with symbolic elements like fish and crab, reflecting Korean heritage blended with modern artistic techniques.

Discover Lee Jung-seob (1916-1956), a pivotal Korean artist renowned for his powerful oil paintings, iconic 'White Ox', and evocative depictions of family & Korean life. Explore his blend of traditional themes with modern techniques.

Hand Made Oil Reproduction

Hand-painted oil on canvas in your size and frame, made to order by our artists. ( Buy Print Buy Image)

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You may enter your own dimensions to fit a specific frame or space. If your selected size does not match the original image's proportions, we will either crop the artwork or extend the painting with additional hand-painted elements. A digital mockup will be sent for your approval before production begins.
Please note that the on-screen preview does not reflect the actual cropping or extension. Only the mockup will accurately show the final composition.
While custom sizes are available, we recommend selecting a dimension from the predefined list to preserve the original proportions.

Customize My Artwork + $50

Examples of what can be changed: Replace face with customer photo; Add pet (e.g., replace cat with dog); Include hidden message in background; Change background landscape or elements.
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Elite Senior Artist (more detail, finesse, and extra production time) + $100

No Artwork Nameplate

Engraved bronze plaque displaying artist name and translated painting title. Size: 9x2 cm. + $11

Transparent acrylic plaque with black UV-engraved artwork informations and QR code. Size: 10x15 cm. + $30

Black acrylic plaque featuring white engraved text with artwork informations and QR code. Size: 10x15 cm. + $30

Engraved Bronze Plaque Details

This elegant plaque features the artist's name and the title of the artwork, finely engraved for a timeless presentation.

It is made from bronze with a refined, elegant finish. The text is precisely laser-engraved for a sharp and permanent result. Measuring 9x2 cm, the plaque is compact yet easy to read. It's built to be durable and scratch-resistant, offering a professional, museum-quality look. Mounting is simple thanks to the included adhesive backing.

Transparent Acrylic Plaque Details

The plaque includes essential engraved details such as the artist's name, the title of the artwork, the date it was created, the type of media used-like oil on canvas or watercolor-a brief description of the piece, and a QR code that links to the complete artwork information.

It is crafted from clear acrylic, offering a sleek, modern appearance. The text is UV-engraved in black to ensure strong visual contrast. With a size of 10x15 cm, it ensures optimal readability. It comes equipped with two metal hooks for secure wall mounting. The plaque is designed to be weather-resistant, making it suitable for various environments, and it includes interactive features that work seamlessly with smartphone scanning.

Black Acrylic Plaque Details

This elegant plaque includes engraved information such as the artist's name, the title of the artwork, the date it was created, the type of media used (like oil on canvas or watercolor), a short description of the artwork, and a QR code for quick access to more information.

The plaque itself is made from refined black acrylic with a premium finish. The text is laser-engraved in white for high contrast and readability. Its size is 10x15 cm, designed to be easy to read. It comes with two metal hooks for professional mounting. The design is sleek and fits any interior style. It is also weather-resistant and durable, with built-in digital integration for mobile compatibility.

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$ 263

ExclamationCircle Glass option is only available in size under 110 CM

Family and Fish

Reproduction Medium

Reproduction Size

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Elite Senior Artist

More detail, finesse, and extra production time

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Reproduction Frame

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ExclamationCircle For artworks or reproductions larger than 105 cm (approximately 41 inches) on any side, the frame will be shipped as a ready-to-assemble kit. This method ensures safe delivery and prevents damage during transport.

All solid wood bars are included, precisely cut to size.
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Assembly guide included; setup takes under 10 minutes with a standard screwdriver.

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Tightening the canvas on the assembled frame may require a canvas stretching plier tool, which is not included in the kit. This tool helps ensure proper tension and a professional finish.

Nameplate

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Protective Varnish

Glossy Varnish (enhances colors, protects against light/moisture)

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Customize My Artwork

Examples of what can be changed: Replace face with customer photo; Add pet (e.g., replace cat with dog); Include hidden message in background; Change background landscape or elements.

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Urgent

Worldwide Delivery () in 3/4 weeks instead of standard 5 weeks. (17 August). No compromise on quality.

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Express Shipping

Worldwide Delivery () in 5 weeks. (24 August).

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Total Price

$ 263

Quick Facts

Artistic style: Realistic
Location: National Museum of Korea
Medium: Oil on Paper
Subject or theme: Family Scene
Notable elements or techniques: Blending traditional Korean elements with modern oil painting.
Title: Family and Fish

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:

What is the predominant color scheme used in ‘Family and Fish’?

Bright reds and yellows

Pale blues and greens

Monochromatic black and white

Question 2:

The painting depicts a family scene featuring which prominent animal?

A lion

An elephant

A fish

Question 3:

Lee Jung-seob’s artistic style is characterized by blending what influences?

Impressionism and Surrealism

Traditional Korean art motifs with modern oil painting techniques

Cubism and Futurism

Question 4:

Where can you find ‘Family and Fish’ displayed?

The Louvre Museum, Paris

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

National Museum of Korea, Seoul

Question 5:

What is a notable aspect of Lee Jung-seob’s artistic approach as demonstrated in ‘Family and Fish’?

He exclusively utilized large canvases.

He experimented with innovative watercolor techniques.

He adhered strictly to academic realism.

Artwork Description

A Moment Frozen in Time: Exploring Lee Jung-seob’s “Family and Fish”

Lee Jung-seob's "Family and Fish," painted circa 1956, stands as a poignant testament to Korean artistic sensibilities during the mid-20th century. Created in Gyeongnam Province, South Korea, this watercolor captures a familial tableau imbued with subtle symbolism that speaks volumes about Korean culture and its relationship with nature. The painting’s enduring appeal lies not merely in its aesthetic beauty but also in its ability to evoke feelings of warmth, tranquility, and contemplation—qualities highly valued within Korean artistic tradition.

Style and Technique: Watercolor Mastery

Lee Jung-seob's distinctive style is characterized by a masterful command of watercolor technique. Unlike oil paints which offer rich textures and bold colors, watercolor relies on translucent washes to achieve luminosity and depth. This approach allowed Lee to capture the delicate interplay of light and shadow within the scene—particularly evident in the depiction of the fish swimming beneath the surface of the water. The artist’s meticulous attention to detail is palpable; observe how he renders individual strands of hair and folds of clothing with remarkable precision, demonstrating a dedication to capturing realistic representation alongside expressive artistry.

Historical Context: Korea Under Pressure

“Family and Fish” was produced during a period of significant upheaval in Korean history—the aftermath of the Korean War (1950-1953). While outwardly serene, the painting subtly reflects anxieties about survival and resilience inherent in Korean culture. The presence of fish symbolizes abundance and prosperity – crucial elements for sustaining life amidst hardship – yet their depiction beneath the surface underscores the vulnerability of the family unit facing external challenges. This duality is skillfully conveyed through Lee Jung-seob’s understated palette and compositional choices, reflecting a broader artistic preoccupation with conveying emotion without resorting to overt melodrama.

Symbolism: Harmony Between Humanity and Nature

The composition itself contributes significantly to the painting's symbolic resonance. The central figure—a man holding a stick—represents strength and protection, while his gaze directs attention towards the family members below. This positioning emphasizes the importance of familial bonds and underscores Korean beliefs about honoring ancestors and safeguarding tradition. Simultaneously, the fish symbolize harmony between humanity and nature – a core concept within Korean philosophy. Their tranquil movement contrasts with the stillness of the human figures, suggesting an aspiration for balance and serenity amidst turbulent times.

Emotional Impact: A Legacy of Quiet Reflection

Ultimately, “Family and Fish” transcends mere visual representation; it communicates profound emotional depth. The painting’s muted tones evoke a sense of nostalgia and introspection—encouraging viewers to contemplate themes of family, heritage, and the enduring beauty of the natural world. It exemplifies Lee Jung-seob's ability to distill complex ideas into simple yet powerfully evocative imagery—a hallmark of Korean watercolor art that continues to inspire admiration and appreciation today. Its inclusion in the National Museum of Korea solidifies its place as a cornerstone of Korean artistic history, inviting audiences worldwide to engage with this timeless masterpiece.

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Holy Family On The Steps, Canvas, The Natio — Nicolas Poussin, French Baroque

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Portrait Of The Family Of Joseph, Duke Of Saxe-altenburg — Karl Joseph Stieler, Neoclassicism

Karl Joseph Stieler Portrait of the Family of Joseph, Duke of Saxe-Altenburg

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Ernst Ludwig Kirchner untitled (9614)

The Fisherman's Family — William Hemsley, Contemporary Realism

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Artist Biography

a korean master of oil paintings

lee, jung-seob, a prominent south korean artist, left an indelible mark on the art world with his captivating oil paintings. born in pyeongannamdo, south korea in 1916, lee's artistic journey was marked by innovation and a deep connection with his heritage.

artistic contributions

lee jung-seob is best known for his iconic piece 'white ox', a testament to his skillful use of oil paints. this masterpiece, among others, showcases his unique style that blends traditional korean elements with modern techniques.

key works:
- family and pigeon (national museum of korea, seoul, south korea) - a poignant oil on paper piece.
- boys, fish, and crab (national museum of korea, seoul, south korea) - a watercolor showcasing lee's versatility.
- two boys and deer (national museum of korea, seoul, south korea) - another example of his watercolor prowess.
museums featuring his work:
- national museum of korea (seoul, south korea)

legacy and influence

lee jung-seob's passing in seoul in 1956 marked the end of an era but also paved the way for future generations of korean artists. his influence can be seen in the works of many contemporary korean painters. explore more of lee jung-seob's art: [https://ArtsDot.com/@/lee-jung-seob](https://ArtsDot.com/@/lee-jung-seob) | discover an extensive collection of his paintings on ArtsDot. learn about other renowned artists: /en/art/list/ | browse through the list of greatest artists at ArtsDot.