Conserving Korean hanging scrolls

Last updated: 16 February 2023

About the project

The hanging scroll paintings are made by the well-known Joseon Dynasty court painter, Jo Seokjin (1853 – 1920), and also by celebrated literati painters Jeong Hak-gyo (1832 – 1914), Seo Byeongo (1862 – 1936) and Haegang Kim Gyujin (1868 – 1933). Created between 1909 and 1910, these scrolls provide an insight into the artistic styles and interests of the last years of the Joseon Dynasty.

The hanging scrolls are on loan to National Museums Scotland from George Watson's College in Edinburgh and when they are conserved, one from the group will be on display in the Exploring East Asia Gallery at National Museum of Scotland. Other outputs will be greater understanding of the artist’s work, digital content and a workshop for students from George Watson's College.

One of the painted hanging scrolls prior to undergoing conservation.