The Paintings of Korean Shaman Gods: History, Relevance and Role as Religious Icons

Author: Bak Yong-suk, Christina Han, Kim Tae-gon
Translated by: Christina Han
Publisher: Renaissance, 2018
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From the publisher’s website:

This is the first comprehensive, fully illustrated study of Korean shaman gods to be published in English; it includes 130 full-colour plates of shaman gods, many dating back to the eighteenth century. In addition to the plate section, the volume comprises three texts: An illustrated introductory chapter by Christina Han on shamanism – its origins and its significance in Korea as the most ancient form of spirituality framed by the shaman paintings, followed by two further contextualising essays – ‘Reflections on Shaman God Paintings and Shamanism’ by Kim Tae-gon, and ‘The Shaman God Paintings as an Icon and Its Artistic Qualities’ by Bak Yong-suk, both distinguished authorities in the study of Korean shamanism. As well as those specialising in Korean Studies, The Paintings of Korean Shaman Gods will also be welcomed by those with a particular interest in Art History and Cultural and Religious Studies in general.

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