Tongdosa Geumdongcheonmundo, Yangsan

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.1373

Category

Craft

Era

조선 효종 3년(1652)

Designated year

2003

Location

양산시, 경상남도— 경남 양산시 하북면 통도사로 108, 통도사성보박물관 (지산리)

Coordinates

35.487956, 129.064387

This gilt-bronze Celestial Chart shows the constellations from the North Pole to the equator, portraying the circle of apparition as a circle with diameter of 19cm. The positions and patterns of the constellations marked therein are generally consistent with the Cheonsangyeolcha bunyajido (Traditional Astronomical Chart made by the Joseon Dynasty). A total of 109 of the most important constellations and 481 stars (28 divisions of stars around the North Star) are carved on a round copper plate. The stars in each constellation are linked with each using lines. A hole was made in the place of each star and set with a pearl. There are only 24 pearls left. Diverse types of pearls (measuring 0.5cm, 0.7cm, etc.) are set into the holes. Apart from the constellations, three holes are carved at the center and on each side of the round plate in an imaginary straight line, presumably to enable the user to find the proper direction of the astronomical chart in the dark and find the constellations by feel while looking up at the sky. This astronomical chart would have been a very convenient scientific instrument since it could be carried around and the pearls would shine in the dark, so that the constellations could be observed and found easily. On the back are stipple engravings of five mountain peaks and two pine trees, with the sea below. In this regard, the astronomical chart is not just a scientific instrument; it also has artistic value as a traditional craftwork and academic value in relation to the history of pictorial art. An inscription at the lower right section of the picture indicates that the astronomical chart was made in 1652 (the 3rd year of King Hyojong’s reign) by female monk Seonhwaja of Hermitage Munjuam in Samgaksan Mountain.

Location