Hanging Painting of Hwaeomsa Temple (The Vulture Peak Assembly)

Basic information

Designation

National Treasure No.301

Category

Painting

Era

조선 효종 4년(1653)

Designated year

1997

Location

구례군, 전라남도— 전남 구례군 마산면 화엄사로 539, 화엄사 (황전리)

Coordinates

35.255483, 127.497563

Gwaebul is a large Buddhist painting that is hung at the front garden of the sanctuary during sermons or ceremonies. This particular gwaebul is Yeongsan hoesangdo, which depicts the scene of Sakyamuni preaching. It was painted in 1653 and is 12.08m in length and 7.69m in width. It is now preserved at Hwaeomsa Temple. Sakyamuni is at the center and Bodhisattvas and the Four Guardian Kings stand surrounding him. Sakyamuni has light emitting from his head. He is sitting in the center and pointing his fingers downwards, which means that he is casting off demons. He has a round face and round shoulders. The touches of the brushes are delicate and sophisticated. The two Bodhisattvas, Munsubosal and Bohyeonbosal, are standing next to Sakyamuni assisting him. Two of the Four Guardian Kings are in the lower part of the picture and the other two are in the upper part. This makes it look as if the Four Guardian Kings are guarding the four corners. The Four Guardian Kings have round faces, large eyes, small noses and mouths, long ears. The picture is painted mainly in red and green. The middle tone colors are used and this creates a subtle lightness of mood. The patterns in various colors enhance the splendor of the picture. All the figures are slim and well balanced and painted in bright, vivid colors. All these features, including the splendid flower print, are characteristics of the 17th century Buddhist painting. This gwaebul is an excellent example of 17th century Buddhist painting and is also preserved in a favorable state.

Location