An original hand-painted minhwa painting by Soonja Yoo.
Minhwa (민화), or Korean folk painting, is known for its vivid colors, expressive imagery, and symbolic themes reflecting wishes for good fortune, longevity, and happiness.
Munbaedo (Chicken) draws on the Korean tradition of protective paintings displayed on doors and gates to safeguard the home. The rooster, whose crow announces the arrival of daylight, was traditionally believed to drive away evil spirits. Depicted standing on one leg in a watchful pose, it conveys vigilance and wishes for protection.
In this work, a vividly patterned rooster stands beneath cascading green leaves and bands of stylized clouds. Its red comb, golden neck, and layered orange feathers contrast with a sweeping purple tail and bold black body. Soft green hills and small pink and red plant forms punctuate the peach-colored background, creating a lively composition that gives this traditional guardian a striking decorative presence.
Product Details
Artist: Soonja Yoo
Title: Munbaedo (Chicken)
Year: 2026
Material: Mineral pigments mixed with animal glue on Hanji (Korean mulberry paper)
Dimensions: 10 × 10 in.
