Stupa at Gulsansa Temple Site, Gangneung

This stupa is presumed to hold the relics of State Preceptor Beomil, who founded Gulsansa Temple in the Goryeo period. It stands on higher ground above the Gulsansa temple site; all of its parts are basically octagonal, though some show variations in technique. Centred on the body stone enshrining the relics, a base is set below and a roof stone with a finial above. The finial consists of a support for the spire, a canopy, and a bead ornament shaped like a lotus bud. The base stone, carved from a single block, has an octagonal plan, and above it is a dish-shaped support stone. The lower support stone, which has an octagonal, two-tiered cushion stone, is circular in plan and carved with cloud designs. Above it, the middle support stone has eight pillars marking its corners, and each face is carved with a heavenly being playing a musical instrument. All eight carved figures play different instruments, depicted in order as a hourglass drum, an ocarina-like wind instrument, bronze cymbals, a lute, a vertical flute, a mouth organ, a harp and a large transverse flute. The uppermost support stone is carved with a lotus flower in full bloom, facing upward. The body consists of a low octagonal main stone and a roof stone with a steep slope; the eaves of the roof stone show no upward curve, giving it a plain, flat appearance.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Gangneung, Gangwon

Designation

Treasure · 보물