동북아역사재단 NORTHEAST ASIAN HISTORY FOUNDATION 로고 동북아역사재단 NORTHEAST ASIAN HISTORY FOUNDATION 로고 Newsletter

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Cover Story

Cover Story

 

Cheonjo jangsa jeonbyeoldo (天朝將士餞別圖) is a painting featuring Joseon officials bidding farewell to Ming forces that had been dispatched to Joseon upon the 1597 Japanese invasion. The forces were led by Minister of War and Commander-in-chief Xing Jie (邢玠), which is probably why the figure presumed to be Xing Jie in the paining is depicted in a much larger size compared to Joseon officials. African mercenaries who fought as part of the Ming army can also be spotted in the painting. The work vividly communicates the fact that not only did the Imjin War involve international warfare, it served as an opportunity for Ming China to establish a greater presence in Joseon. Before returning to Ming, Xing Jie didn’t forget to convey his appreciation to the Joseon officials who supported him throughout his expedition, particularly a low-ranking Joseon official named Kim Dae-hyeon (1553-1602) who served him closely and to whom the featured painting was gifted. The painting thereafter became included in a collection of illustrated records on the lives of Kim Dae-hyeon and other family members within the Pungsan Kim clan.