Stupa Group of Yongmunsa Temple, Namhae

Stupas 1, 2 and 3 (budo, memorial stone monuments for Buddhist monks) are of the bell-shaped type, each built of two stones: one body stone and one base stone. The body narrows towards the bottom, in the shape of a bell. The foundation stone of Stupa 1 exposed above ground is octagonal, though the sides are of unequal length. Around the base stone supporting the body is a band of single-petal, downward-facing lotus decoration, though it is considerably worn. Stupa 3, that of the Great Master Sedamdang Ilhaeng, has clearly carved relief lotus designs at the top and bottom of its bell-shaped body, and its finial takes the form of a lotus bud with petals slightly opened. Stupa 4 is the smallest of the nine, consisting of three stones: one foundation stone, one body stone, and one roof stone. The body is a cylindrical column that bulges in the middle, and the roof stone is square, with each corner curving slightly upward; the centre of the roof stone is hollowed in a round shape, and its edge is somewhat damaged. Stupa 5, likewise made of three stones (one base stone, one body stone and one roof stone), is set on a large natural rock, which serves the same function as a ground stone. Its base stone is divided into upper and lower sections, the upper carved as a circle and the lower as a square, each carved with decorative patterns. The hexagonal body, which bulges in the middle, is relatively tall in relation to its width, and patterns are likewise carved at the top and bottom of the body. The roof stone is square in plan, with a round overturned-bowl finial set at its centre, incised with a rippling wave pattern. Stupas 6 and 7 are likewise of the bell-shaped type, each consisting of two stones (one base stone and one body stone). The body narrows towards the bottom, and the bell-shaped section is relatively tall in relation to its width. Patterns encircle the top and bottom of this section, carved in relief at the top and incised at the bottom, and the finial takes the form of a cintamani, or wish-fulfilling jewel. Stupa 8 consists of four stones: one foundation stone, one base stone, one body stone and one roof stone. The foundation stone is a natural stone buried in the ground. The base stone is carved octagonal, and the roof stone takes the form of a square roof; at its very centre is carved a turtle, or terrapin, with its neck stretched out. Stupa 8 itself bears no inscription on its body, but beside it stands a separate memorial stone, the Stele Recording the Lineage of the Great Master Haejindang Cheonhae. An inscription covers the entire front face of this stele, but it is carved relatively shallowly and has been considerably worn by rain and wind. Stupa 9 consists of one foundation stone and one body stone; the foundation stone is a natural stone, and there is no base stone. The body narrows towards the bottom, and its upper section is carved in relief with an eleven-petal, single-layer lotus design. At the very centre of the top is set a finial in the shape of a cintamani.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Namhae, Gyeongnam

Designation

Provincial Tangible Heritage · 시도유형문화유산