Gilt-bronze Miniature Pagoda

Basic information

Designation

National Treasure No.213

Category

Craft

Era

고려시대 초기

Designated year

1984

Location

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

Coordinates

37.536528, 126.996187

Gilt-bronze or bronze pagodas were mostly produced for indoor purpose rather than as a main object of a temple. They are usually tiny (20-30cm in height), few of which are taller than 50cm. In this regard this 1.55 meter-high pagoda is unusual in size and height. Presently consisting of five stories with a two-story pedestal and part of the final, the original work most likely stood higher. This pagoda is built in a typical style of Korean pagodas. Columns and pillars are engraved on all corners and sides of the pedestal, patterned after wooden architectures. On each side of the lower pedestal are carved lotus petals, typical of Goryeo stone pagodas. Railings are installed on the upper pedestal. The first story has doors, pillars and a tiled roof, faithfully reviving traditional wooden architectures, with the walls of the successive stories ornamented with seated Buddha images with less skill. The roofs have a few wind-bells hanging from some of their corners. The gilding has almost completely peeled off, but overall condition of this pagoda is good. Broad pedestal is in remarkable contrast with narrow stories. Lavish decoration and overall style show the characteristics of both metalwork pagodas and stone pagodas. This pagoda is believed to date from the early Goryeo Period (11th century) when pagodas in varied styles and forms were erected on a large scale.

Location