An Chung-sik (Sim-chŏn)

An Chung-sik, also known by his pen name Sim-chŏn, was a prominent Korean painter born in 1861 and who passed away in 1919. He was a leading figure in the late Joseon Dynasty and early modern Korean art, known for his contributions to the development of the Korean painting style known as "true-view" landscape painting. An was instrumental in the transition from traditional Korean painting techniques to more modern approaches, incorporating elements of Western art into his work. His oeuvre is characterized by a delicate balance between traditional Korean aesthetics and innovative techniques, which significantly influenced subsequent generations of Korean artists. An Chung-sik's legacy is marked by his role in preserving and revitalizing Korean cultural identity during a period of significant political and social change. His works remain celebrated for their technical mastery and cultural significance.