Rock-carved Buddhas at Gaeryeongam Hermitage Site, Namwon

Carved into the cliff behind the site of Gaeryeongam Hermitage, below Gollibong Peak which adjoins Jeongnyeongchi Pass on Jirisan Mountain, this large group of rock-carved Buddhas consists of twelve figures of varying size. Because the rock face is uneven, the relief carving is inconsistent in depth and the figures are considerably weathered, but three of them survive in relatively good condition. Among these, the largest Buddha stands some 4 metres tall and is also the most skilfully carved, and is regarded as the principal image. The face is carved in high relief, while the folds of the robe are rendered in incised lines, following the general technique used in Buddhist rock carvings of the Goryeo period. The large face, formalised features, imposing physique and simplified drapery folds are all characteristic of the taste for colossal Buddha images that was popular during the Goryeo dynasty. The smaller Buddhas, between 1 and 2 metres tall, show the same carving technique, and the similarity in style among the individual parts suggests that they were all made at the same period. A Buddha group of this scale is a rare example and is valued accordingly, and its importance is further enhanced by inscriptions reading "Sejeon" (世田) and "Myeongwoljibul" (明月智佛) carved into the rock.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Namwon, Jeonbuk

Designation

Treasure · 보물