Bronze Bell of Neunggasa Temple, Goheung

Although this bell, made in 1698, is the latest surviving work by Kim Ae-rip, it is regarded as the representative masterpiece that best demonstrates his outstanding skill. The overall form of the bell body — narrow at the top and gradually widening toward the bottom — resembles the bronze bell of Heungguksa Temple, Yeosu, and its dragon-shaped suspension loop is formed of a pair of dragons. Between the bands containing the raised bosses, four standing bodhisattva figures are carved in relief with graceful, flowing lines, and on one side of the bell body is a votive tablet praying for the peace of the royal household. With the vigorous rendering of the dragon loop, the neatly composed standing bodhisattva figures, and the refinement of its detailed patterning, this bell fully displays the mature skill of Kim Ae-rip's work and is fully deserving of its place among the finest bronze bells of the seventeenth century.

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Where it is

Region

Goheung, Jeonnam & Gwangju

Designation

Treasure · 보물