East Stupa of Seonamsa Temple, Suncheon

A seungtap is a monument symbolising a monk's grave, in which the monk's remains or relics were enshrined. Following the ridge behind the Muujeon Hall of Seonamsa Temple northeastward for about 200m, one comes upon this stupa — one of three Goryeo-period stupas within the temple grounds, notably large in scale, with every part formed in an octagonal shape. The pedestal consists of an octagonal base stone topped by a support carved with ansang (niche-shaped motifs), on which sits a lower base stone carved with cloud patterns. The middle and upper base stones are cut from a single piece and decorated with wave and lotus patterns. The body of the tower narrows toward the top in a trapezoidal shape; the front is carved with Vajra guardians flanking a door bearing a phoenix motif, while the back is carved with a door panel fitted with a ring handle. The roof stone is thin and broad, with flower ornaments hanging at each of its eight corners. At the top, various finial ornaments are stacked in sequence. Faithfully following the octagonal stupa style of Unified Silla, this work, judging by the craftsmanship of its individual parts, is presumed to have been made in the early Goryeo period.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Suncheon, Jeonnam & Gwangju

Designation

Treasure · 보물