Stone Seated Buddha from Seohyeolsa Temple Site, Gongju

This is one of three Buddha statues excavated from the site of Seohyeolsa Temple. The temple was founded during the Baekje period, when it operated on a small scale, before developing into a full-fledged temple during the Unified Silla period. The head is covered with small snail-shell-shaped curls, the face is somewhat elongated, and the eyes, nose and mouth are rendered very small. The robe covers both shoulders and appears thin. The drapery folds curve at the abdomen, but overall the regular, fine parallel lines give a somewhat weak impression. The Buddha sits with both feet raised onto the knees, soles turned upward. The right hand rests on the knee with the fingers pointing downward, forming the bhumisparsha mudra (the earth-touching gesture, symbolising the Buddha calling the earth to witness his enlightenment). The pedestal on which the Buddha sits consists of upper, middle and lower tiers: the upper tier is carved with fully blooming lotus flowers, and the lower tier with lotus flowers turned upside down. This is a Unified Silla Buddha statue in which the earlier vigour and vitality have faded, and the detailed carving - particularly the rendering of the drapery folds - shows a tendency towards formulaic, schematic treatment.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Gongju, Chungnam

Designation

Treasure · 보물