Chong Son, also known as Jung Sun, was a Korean painter born in 1676. He was a prominent figure in the world of Korean art, particularly known for his detailed landscape paintings. Chong Son was born into a period known as the Joseon Dynasty, which is often recognized for its cultural, artistic, and intellectual advancements.
Chong Son's upbringing and early life details are not thoroughly documented, but it is known that he became a government official. His career as an artist is more well-documented. He was greatly influenced by the true-view landscape painting tradition, which aimed to depict the Korean landscape with an emphasis on depicting actual locations with fidelity. This was a departure from the more idealized Chinese literati painting traditions that had dominated Korean landscape painting for centuries.
Despite his status as a government official, Chong Son's passion for painting led him to travel extensively across the Korean peninsula. These travels were instrumental in his development as an artist, providing him with a wealth of real-life vistas to capture on his canvas. His works are characterized by their meticulous detail and the use of fine brushwork, capturing the essence of the Korean landscape with a unique blend of realism and artistic interpretation.
Chong Son's most renowned work is the 'Album of Mount Geumgang.' This series of paintings is a comprehensive depiction of the Mount Geumgang, a mountain considered one of the most scenic and culturally significant in Korea. The paintings illustrate the mountain through the four seasons, showcasing Chong Son's versatility and deep appreciation for nature's changing beauty.
The date of Chong Son's death is not clearly recorded, leaving a gap in the history of this influential artist. However, his contributions to Korean art have been long-lasting. He is remembered for his role in the true-view landscape tradition and his dedication to portraying the Korean landscape with authenticity and artistic integrity. Chong Son's works are considered national treasures in Korea and continue to influence Korean artists today, serving as a testament to the country's rich artistic heritage and the natural beauty of its landscape.