Young Korean noble portrait, 20th century, Korea

Feature Points

• HISTORIC PHOTO REPRODUCTION: You’ll love this high quality historic reproduction of a portrait photo from the early 20th century. Our choice of museum quality prints are archival grade, which means it will look great and last without fading for over 100 years. Our print to order photos are made in the USA and each print is inspected for quality. This historic photo is a perfect addition to your themed decor. Vintage photos look great in the home, study or office. They make a perfect gift as well.
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• A LOOK BACK AT HISTORY: This is an impressive, historic reproduction of a photograph from the early 20th century. A true piece of history. See our product description section for more fascinating information about this historic photo and its significance.
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Additional information

This formal portrait features a young Korean noble, likely from the early 20th century. The sepia-toned photograph is framed in an oval, a style commonly used for official portraits at the time. The boy sits with a serious expression, gazing directly at the camera, embodying the dignity and discipline expected of someone in his position. His youthful face contrasts with the elaborate and formal attire, emphasizing the weight of responsibility placed upon him at an early age.

He is dressed in an elegant, dark-colored silk robe adorned with intricate embroidery, including a hyungbae (흉배), a chest insignia that signifies high rank. The embroidered design suggests he belongs to the upper echelons of society, possibly as a member of the royal family or a high-ranking government official. On his head, he wears a samo (사모), a traditional ceremonial hat worn by court officials and scholars. His posture and attire indicate his elevated status, reflecting the structured hierarchy of Korean nobility during this period.

The dark, minimal background draws focus to the subject’s regal presence, while the oval framing suggests that this portrait was taken for archival or commemorative purposes. Such portraits were often used for official documentation, family lineage preservation, or diplomatic records. Photography was becoming more common among the elite in Korea during this time, and formal images like this served as lasting representations of authority and prestige.

This portrait captures a moment from an era when Korea was undergoing significant political and cultural change. The Korean Empire (1897–1910) had been established to modernize the nation and assert independence, but increasing foreign pressures, particularly from Japan, threatened its sovereignty. Just a few years after this photograph was taken, Korea would be annexed by Japan in 1910, marking the end of its monarchy and the beginning of a colonial period.

This rare image offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditions of Korea’s noble class and court culture during a pivotal time in history. It preserves the legacy of a young aristocrat who, despite his age, was likely being prepared for a role in governance or royal duties.