Stone Pedestal at Godalsa Temple Site, Yeoju

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.8

Category

Sculpture

Era

고려시대

Designated year

1963

Location

여주시, 경기도— 경기도 여주시 북내면 상교리 420-5번지

Coordinates

37.392892, 127.654336

This stone pedestal was discovered at Godalsa Temple, Yeoju, which was built in 764 (the 23rd year of the reign of King Gyeongdeok of the Silla Dynasty) by persons whose identity remains unknown. This pedestal for a granite Buddha has been preserved in almost perfect condition, although the stone statue of Buddha has been lost. The foundation of the pedestal consists of three parts, i.e., upper, middle, and lower stones, each of which is made of polished stone. The Buddha statue would have been placed on the upper stone, which is especially well polished, and a carving of 24 double-folded lotus flowers runs along both the upper and lower stones. Despite being a huge square of stone, the pedestal creates a soft impression due to the rhythmical beauty and sense of animation generated by the engraved lotus flowers. This type of carving technique is similar to that seen on the lower base of the Stupa at Godalsa Temple Site (National Treasure No. 4). The arrangement of lotus flowers around a central flower was a common motif of the Goryeo Dynasty. The pedestal, which is considered a masterpiece due to the excellence of the carving, is thought to date back to the late 10th century (early Goryeo Dynasty) because the stupa found at the same site follows the traditional construction method of the early Goryeo Dynasty.

Location