Gold Seated Buddha from Guhwang-dong, Gyeongju

Found in the reliquary that came out of the three-storey pagoda at the Hwangboksa Temple Site, whose dismantling began in 1942, together with the gold standing Buddha from Guhwang-dong. The inscription on the reliquary says that in 706, under King Seongdeok, an Amitabha of pure gold six inches high was placed inside; this is thought to be that image, though confirming it would need further study of the measures of the time. It is in three parts — mandorla, body and lotus pedestal — made to come apart. A large topknot rises from the smooth head, and the round face is full. The eyes, nose and mouth are clear and balanced, approaching the ideal Unified Silla face. The shoulders are broad and commanding; the outer robe covers both and opens wide at the chest, with an inner garment worn diagonally beneath. The hem falls over the pedestal symmetrically and long. The right hand is raised to shoulder height palm outward; the left, on the knee, points down, showing the back of the hand. The halo is pierced with lotus at the centre, honeysuckle, arabesque and vine around it and flame at the edge; the body aureole is doubly pierced with honeysuckle, arabesque and vine. The pedestal is round and carved with an inverted lotus. Smiling, clear-featured and well proportioned, and all the more dignified for it, the image is a very important source for the style of Buddhist sculpture of the early eighth century.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Designation

National Treasure · 국보