Stele of Master Hyeongak at Yeongoksa Temple, Gurye

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.152

Category

Books & Records

Era

고려 경종 4년(979년)

Designated year

1963

Location

구례군, 전라남도— 전남 구례군 토지면 피아골로 806-16, 연곡사 (내동리) / (지번)전남 구례군 토지면 내동리 산54-1

Coordinates

35.255017, 127.587184

Located at Yeongoksa Temple, this stele was erected to pay tribute to Master Hyeongak in the early Goryeo Period. The stele was already missing its main stone by the time of the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1592, and now only the stele’s pedestal and capstone remain. The stone turtle base that supports the stele has large bright eyes and a broad mouth, and a dragon's head with long whiskers. The base stone, on which the main stone of the stele sits (on the back of the turtle), is carved with a panel decoration and a flower design. The capstone of the stele, which is placed on top of the pedestal, is carved with several entangled dragons expressed in vivid detail. The inscription on the middle of the front surface of the stele’s capstone states that it was erected in 979 (the 4th year of the reign of King Gyeongjong of Goryeo) to commemorate Master Hyeongak.

Location