Rock-carved Seated Bodhisattva of Botasa Temple, Seoul

The Rock-carved Seated Bodhisattva of Botasa Temple, Seoul is carved into the rock face behind Daeungjeon Hall at Botasa Temple, a hermitage (Chilseongam) of Gaeunsa Temple. Overall, the broad shoulders and pronounced sense of volume give the figure a dignified, commanding presence. The head wears a jewelled crown, and the body is draped in a heavenly scarf (cheonui); the left hand is lowered beside the legs, which are crossed in the full lotus position, while the right hand is raised to shoulder height. The face has clearly defined features, marked by eyes that stretch long to either side, crescent-moon-shaped eyebrows and a high, prominent nose bridge. The crown itself is relatively tall, with bands projecting to either side and decorative elements hanging down at length. This mode of expression is also found in the treasure Rock-carved Seated Bodhisattva of Okcheonam Hermitage, Seoul. No records relating to this statue survive today, but a sinjungpae - a tablet depicting the assembly of guardian deities - carved to the left of the bodhisattva provides a reference for estimating its date of production. Together with the Rock-carved Seated Bodhisattva of Okcheonam Hermitage, Seoul, this statue is an outstanding example of a style of bodhisattva image that was popular in the late Goryeo and early Joseon periods.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Seongbuk-gu, Seoul

Designation

Treasure · 보물