Upon the fall of the Goryeo Dynasty in 1392, Hwang Hui (1363-1452/penname: Bangchon) left the officialdom but returned at the request of King Taejo (r. 1392-1398), founder of the Joseon Dynasty, and colleagues of Dumumdong. He climbed the bureaucratic ladder to Minister of Defense, Protocol, and Personnel, only to be dismissed from the office and exiled due to a disagreement with the King on the dethronement and installation of the crown prince. He was reinstated under the reign of King Sejong (r. 1418-1450) as Grade 2 officer, rising to the position of Prime Minister and serving for 18 years.
This portrait depicts him in his light red official robe, which is ordinary attire for the officers. His hat displays the characteristics of the one used during the early Joseon Period, whereas the deeply cut lapel and wide sleeves indicate the characteristics of the one used in the 18th Century.
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