Bronze Jar of Unmunsa Temple, Cheongdo

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.208

Category

Craft

Era

고려 문종 21년(1067) 이전

Designated year

1963

Location

청도군, 경상북도— 경북 청도군 운문면 운문사길 264, 운문사 (신원리)

Coordinates

35.661139, 128.960044

Little is known about the purpose of this bronze jar with an attractive glossy black exterior surface. However, as this type of jar is also known as a gamnojum (amrita jar), it may have been used in Buddhist ceremonies. The jar is 55cm tall, measures 19.5cm in diameter at the mouth, and 31cm in diameter at the body, and has a lid with rounded edges. Its upper handle is carved with six lotus petals and a cross-shaped flame design. The jar has a broad bottom and shoulders, and a thick ring handle on each side of the body. Its most unusual feature is the 24cm-high lid, which is very high compared to its 33.5cm-high body. Notably, the flame-patterned handle of the lid is similar to the top ornaments of stupas dating from the Unified Silla and Goryeo Periods. According to the inscription on the shoulder of the jar, it was repaired in 1067 (the 21st year of the reign of King Munjong of the Goryeo Dynasty). As such, it is presumed that the jar was produced sometime between the late Unified Silla and early Goryeo Periods.

Location