West Stupa of Borimsa Temple, Jangheung

These are two stupas standing to the west of Borimsa Temple, erected side by side a short distance from the entrance to the temple. One of them has an overall octagonal plan, with a three-tiered base erected on a square base stone, topped by the body stone and roof stone. On the base, the lower support stone is carved with a double layer of lotus patterns, and the thick, broad middle support stone has a distinctive appearance, with pillars carved at each corner as if strung with beads. The upper support stone is similar in size and width to the lower one, and is carved with eight lotus petals. On one side of the body stone, a door shape is carved, within which a lock and two door rings are depicted. The roof stone has a fairly steep slope on its upper surface, and each of its eight corners is slightly upturned. The other stupa also has an overall octagonal plan, and the form of its base is very similar to that of the stupa described above. However, it differs in that the middle support stone bears no decoration, and the upper support stone is thinner and broader than that of the stupa on the right. On one side of the body stone, a door with a lock is carved, but the roof stone is mostly broken, so its original form cannot be seen. Whereas the stupa described first is complete in form and rather excessively decorative, this one is elegant but less ornate, giving an overall impression of being somewhat diminished. Both stupas share the same finishing technique, and are presumed to date from the Goryeo period. The finials of both survive intact; the reliquary that held the sari, the monk's relics, was looted in 1941, and a replacement was made in 1944.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Jangheung, Jeonnam & Gwangju

Designation

Treasure · 보물