Bronze Bell of Yongjusa Temple

Basic information

Designation

National Treasure No.120

Category

Craft

Era

고려시대

Designated year

1964

Location

화성시, 경기도— 경기 화성시 용주로 136, 용주사 (송산동)

Coordinates

37.199493, 126.831189

With height of 1.44m, mouth diameter of 87cm, and weight of 1.5 tons, the bell was made in the early Goryeo Period (877-1394), displaying a style typical of that of the Silla Period. At the head of the bell is yongtong (sound cylinder). Yongnyu (canons) is shaped like a dragon with a magic bead in the mouth, moving the body energetically with the two feet solidly planted on the ground. The shoulder is adorned with a strap containing a bead and flower pattern. Right below the shoulder are four yugwak (square-shaped ornamental space with nine lotus flower-shaped ornamental nipples arranged symmetrically). Apsaras are inscribed at the front and back of the bell. Images of the Buddha Triad are inscribed on the sides. The bell has four dangjwa (the striking point on the bell). Both Apsaras and Buddha Triad are portrayed to be flying through the clouds, their robes flapping in the wind. The wide strap at the mouth of the bell is adorned with vine patterns. Chinese characters on the body of the bell, which must have been inscribed later, state that the bell was made in 854 (16th year of the reign of King Munseong of Unified Silla), but the shape of the bell and patterns do not match those of said period. Thus, experts think that it dates back to the early Goryeo Period (877-1394). Overall, the bell is in good condition, except for a crack on yongtong and broken ornamental nipples on yugwak. It is regarded as one of the masterpieces among the existing bells dating back to the Goryeo Period.

Location