Stele of Master Cheolgam at Ssangbongsa Temple, Hwasun

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.170

Category

Books & Records

Era

통일신라시대

Designated year

1963

Location

화순군, 전라남도— 전남 화순군 이양면 증리 산195-1번지 쌍봉사

Coordinates

34.888294, 127.059222

This stele at Ssangbongsa Temple was erected for Master Cheolgam Doyun, an eminent monk of the Unified Silla Period. Master Cheolgam (798-868) travelled to Tang China in 825 (the 7th year of the reign of King Heondeok) to study Buddhism, and returned together with Beomil, a State Preceptor of Silla. Also, it is widely known that he helped King Gyeongmun to devote himself to Buddhism. When he died aged 71 in 868 (the 8th year of the reign of King Gyeongmun) at Ssangbongsa Temple, the king granted him the posthumous title of “Cheolgam”. The stele consists of only a pedestal and a capstone as the main stone is missing. Reposing on a square foundation, the turtle-shaped pedestal features a dragon’s head with a cintamani held between its lips, while the capstone is engraved with a cloud design. In general, this is a masterful work of art, with the dynamic turtle-shaped pedestal in particular attesting to the splendid sculpting technique.

Location