Seonunsa Chamdangam Seokjojijangbosal Seated Figure, Gochang

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.2031

Category

Sculpture

Era

고려 말~조선 초

Designated year

2019

Location

고창군, 전북특별자치도— 전라북도 고창군 선운사로 250 (아산면) 선운사

Coordinates

35.654300, 126.689500Museum-based location

The Stone Seated Ksitigarbha of Chamdangam Hermitage, Seonunsa Temple in Gochang is depicted wearing a kind of hood that was in fashion between the end of the Goryeo Period and the early Joseon Period, and which appears in many Buddhist paintings. The statue exhibits the characteristic features of images of Bodhisattvas of late Goryeo, such as the figure’s pacific facial expression and fat lips, the neck band with a decorative pattern symbolizing power and good fortune in Buddhism, and the magic bead it holds in one hand. This aesthetically refined cultural artifact is characterized by a balanced and well-proportioned body, an exquisitely expressed hood, and the realistic representation of Ksitigarbha holding a magic bead in one hand. It is regarded as a valuable material for studies on representations of and belief in Ksitigarbha during the late Goryeo period. There are only a few extant gilt-bronze and wooden statues of Ksitigarbha, and this one is possibly the only one made of stone that has been preserved in good condition. It is not clear whether the pedestal was made simultaneously with the statue, but as its long, thin upper, middle and lower parts are complete, and it displays certain classical features of the mid-Goryeo period, such as the decorative carving symbolizing power and good fortune in Buddhism, it is considered worthy of designation and preservation as a Treasure.

Location