Gilt-bronze Miniature Buddhist Flagpole with Dragon Finial

Basic information

Designation

National Treasure No.136

Category

Craft

Era

고려시대

Designated year

1971

Location

용산구, 서울특별시— 서울 용산구 이태원로55길 60-16, 삼성미술관 리움 (한남동)

Coordinates

37.536528, 126.996187

In the past, temples used to hoist a flag named “dang” on the flagpole (“danggan”) at the entrance to announce a special event held there. The top of this miniature gilt-bronze Miniature Buddhist Flagpole (danggan) (height: 73.8cm) is adorned with the shape of a dragon head. A couple of stone columns are set up on the two-tiered platform. The flagpole is erected by being put into the hole made on the ground between the stone columns. It is composed of eight cylinders interlocked with each other, with the dragon head at the top. Scales are inscribed on the neck of the dragon head for realistic effect. The horns attached to the dragon head make it look more energetic. Thin, dark-brown lacquer was applied to the dragon head, and gold plating was then added. Today, most of the gold plating is gone. The piece made during the Goryeo Period (918-1392) shows how the flagpole had developed as a refined handicraft since the Silla Period (57BC-935AD). Since the head adornment is missing and most of the danggan relics still remain, this one is regarded as a precious material.

Location