Kim Ŭng-wŏn (Gim Eung'won, So-ho and Ch'ŏn-ram)

Kim Ŭng-wŏn, also known by his pen names So-ho and Ch'ŏn-ram, was a prominent Korean artist born in 1855 and who passed away in 1921. He was a significant figure in the late Joseon Dynasty and early modern Korean art, known for his contributions to the traditional Korean painting style known as "true-view" landscape painting. Kim was a master of the literati painting tradition, which emphasized personal expression and scholarly themes, and he played a crucial role in preserving and revitalizing Korean ink painting during a period of cultural transition. His works often depicted serene landscapes and bamboo, reflecting his deep engagement with nature and Confucian ideals. Kim Ŭng-wŏn's legacy is marked by his influence on subsequent generations of Korean artists and his efforts to maintain Korean cultural identity during the Japanese occupation. His contributions are celebrated for their technical skill and the subtle integration of traditional themes with contemporary sensibilities.