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14. Admiral Yi Sun-shin in the Divination by Lot
The Admiral used to pick up the chinese character divination sticks with an anxious state of mind facing uncertain fate ( according to War Diary of the Admiral).
While the harmony of the chiaroscuro of colors strengthens and unifies the order of the composition, the Admiral’s expressiveness of a severe, sculpted face looking downward, quietly withdrawn, fully renders the gravity of his thoughts.
The x-shaped composition and two strong light sources enhances the brooding mood of the contemplation and psychological density. The relief-like thickness of the painting surface fortifies the richness and the depth to the expressive composition.