Rock-carved Standing Buddha Triad in Yul-dong, Gyeongju

This is a rock-carved Buddha (maaebul) with a triad of images carved on a rock facing west on Byeokdosan Mountain in Gyeongju. Following the same style as the nearby Stone Buddhas in Four Directions at Gulbulsa Temple Site (Treasure), this representative work of the Unified Silla period carves Amitabha Buddha, who rules over the Western Paradise, in the centre, flanked by Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva. The head of the Amitabha Buddha is very large, and near the crown there is a low topknot-shaped protuberance, making it look as though the Buddha is wearing a hat — the same style as seen in the Stone Buddhas in Four Directions at Gulbulsa Temple Site. The face appears very full, with plump cheeks, and retains a smile. The shoulders are broad and straight, and the robe covering both shoulders is thinly rendered, clearly revealing the curves of the body. The right hand hangs down while the left hand is raised to the chest with the thumb and middle finger touching, showing that this statue represents Amitabha Buddha. The feet are not placed forward but are uniquely spread out sideways. The Bodhisattva on the left emphasises a slender, feminine beauty in contrast to the full figure of the main Buddha. The curves of the body are clearly revealed, and the feet are likewise spread sideways. The right hand is raised to shoulder height with the thumb and middle finger touching, and the left hand holds a precious vase. This hand gesture identifies it as Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, the attendant Bodhisattva of Amitabha Buddha. The Bodhisattva on the right has a similar form and is the other attendant Bodhisattva, Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva. All these Buddha figures have a round halo behind the head. While basically the same as the Stone Buddhas in Four Directions at Gulbulsa Temple Site, differences in fullness, the shape of the feet and the pattern of robe folds indicate that this was made at a somewhat different time.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Gyeongju, Gyeongbuk

Designation

Treasure · 보물