죽하맹호도 Jukha Maenghodo (竹下猛虎圖, Tiger Under Bamboo)

A painting of a tiger by Kim Hong-do, one of the representative painters of the late Joseon dynasty, depicts a tiger crouching beneath bamboo. In traditional Korean painting, the tiger was regarded as a symbol of authority, dignity, and protection, while bamboo symbolized integrity and nobility. Kim’s brushwork renders the tiger’s muscles and fur with meticulous detail, while at the same time conveying vigorous energy. The tiger’s gaze radiates tension and vitality.