Stupa at Yongamsa Temple Site, Jinju

Originally this stupa stood to the north-west of the Yongamsa Temple site; having been damaged, it was moved back to its original location and restored in 1962. The base stone, the middle section of the platform (gidan), and the body of the stupa had been damaged, so these parts were newly made. In particular, the middle stone of the platform had originally been carved with clouds and a dragon, but the replacement bears only simple corner pillars, which is regrettable. On each side of the lower stone of the platform, cloud patterns are deeply carved, and within them figures of heavenly guardians who protect the Buddhist Law are carved in relief, executed with excellent skill. Above the lotus-patterned upper edge of the platform, on the roof of the stupa body, a flat support with a matching border is visible beneath the thin roof stone. At the point where the roofline meets the eave line, a projecting flower ornament is formed. The slope is gentle, and the top is encircled by a thin band of lotus pattern. The finial is not as elaborate as that of a stone pagoda, but structures with symbolic meaning are stacked in sequence upon it. It is not clear whose sarira stupa this is, but it is presumed to have been made in the early Goryeo period. Overall the proportions are well balanced, and every part is octagonal, following the standard form. Around the sarira stupa, parts of a stone Buddha, a stone lantern and a stone pagoda remain together, keeping watch over the site.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Jinju, Gyeongnam

Designation

Treasure · 보물