Bronze Bell of Naesosa Temple in Buan

Basic information

Designation

National Treasure No.342

Category

Craft

Era

1222년(고려 고종 9)

Designated year

2023

Location

부안군, 전북특별자치도— 전라북도 부안군 내소사로 243 (진서면, 내소사)

Coordinates

35.617862, 126.587575Kakao address conversion

This English description was machine-translated and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the original Korean text for details.

Bronze Bell of Naesoesa Temple, Buan. The bronze bell of Naesoesa Temple in Buan is the standard example of 13th-century Korean Buddhist bells: the engraved casting inscription (鑄鍾記) on the bell body clearly identifies it as made in 1222 (Goryeo, King Gojong's 9th year) by craftsman Han Jung-seo at a weight of 700 geun. Currently hanging in the bell pavilion of Naesoesa Temple, it is the largest surviving late Goryeo bronze bell. While inheriting the Unified Silla-period Buddhist bell tradition, it displays Goryeo-specific decorative characteristics including upright lotus petal borders on the shoulder, a trinity of Buddha figures in relief beneath a billowing canopy, and four suspension boss plaques. This bell was originally enshrined at Cheongnimsa Temple before being relocated to Naesoesa in 1850 (King Cheoljong's 1st year); a relocation inscription (移安記) from 1853 is also engraved on the body, preserving a historical record of the bell's provenance. The bell is essential research material for studying Korean Buddhist bell history, bronze casting techniques, and artistic craftsmanship.

Location