A Painting Wishing for Prosperity
Pair of Birds and Eggplant
  • Unidentified artist
  • Joseon Dynasty, mid-16th century
  • Ink and color on silk
  • Fukuoka Art Museum

Beneath a cluster of heavily fruited eggplants, two doves sit peacefully. The diagonal placement of the eggplant behind the birds creates a natural sense of depth within the composition. Surrounding the deep purple fruit are chrysanthemums, balsams, and other blossoms, enhancing the painting’s bright and cheerful atmosphere. The eggplants and flowers, which evoke fertility and abundance, indicate that this painting goes beyond a simple depiction of nature to also convey auspicious meanings.

Exhibition period June 10, 2025. – July 20, 2025.