Beyond Line: The Art of Korean Writing

This book explores the history of Korean writing, from the Three Kingdoms period to contemporary art, discussing the social and cultural conditions that led to its creation, the materials employed, and its use to maintain the historical class structure and incite social change. It also explores how the invention of the hangeul phonetic script led to a more global identity for Korea.

Format: Hardback
Length: 408 pages
Publication date: 03 June 2019
Publisher: Prestel

This magnificent volume offers an extraordinary window into Korean culture, presenting a comprehensive and multidisciplinary exploration of the history of Korean writing. Spanning from the earliest texts of the Three Kingdoms period to its contemporary applications in art, the book delves into the social and cultural factors that shaped the creation of calligraphic works. It explores the diverse range of individuals who engaged in calligraphy, including kings, queens, scholar-officials, painters, monks, and even slaves. Moreover, it examines the materials used in the art, ranging from paper, ink, and bamboo to ceramics, silk, and metal.

Beyond Line also examines the multifaceted roles that calligraphy played in Korean society. It discusses how it was used to maintain the historical class structure and, as literacy spread, to advocate for social change for women, merchants, and other marginalized groups. The authors explore how the invention of the hangeul phonetic script contributed to a more global identity for Korea and how this script continues to influence contemporary art and design.

In conclusion, Beyond Line is a seminal work that illuminates the beauty, strength, and historical significance of calligraphy in Korean culture. It provides a rich and detailed account of the development of Korean writing and its profound impact on society. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Korea.

Weight: 2474g
Dimension: 323 x 219 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783791358147