Bongeopsamyeong Cheongdong Incense Burner

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.1414

Category

Craft

Era

고려시대(13세기)

Designated year

2004

Location

용산구, 서울특별시— 서울특별시 용산구 서빙고로 137 (용산동6가, 국립중앙박물관)

Coordinates

No precise coordinates are available, so this item is not shown as a map marker. To be added later.

This large incense burner was discovered at the former site of Bongeopsa Temple, which existed during the Goryeo Dynasty, in Anseong, Gyeonggi-do. It consists of the nosin (body) and gaebu (lid), and a pedestal with three legs to support the body. It is unique in that there is no broad projecting rim, a characteristic feature of most incense burners of the Goryeo Dynasty. However, the body of the incense burner closely resembles the shape of hyangwan (bowl-shaped incense burners) of the Goryeo Dynasty. The boju (finial) on top of the lid and the round pedestal with three legs add overall balance and proportion to the structure, as well as a dignified beauty. The lid is decorated with an elaborate boju, which appears to have been gilded. It is in the shape of a stylized flame, much like the ones found in sarira reliquaries. The words “Buddhist Monk Wonjun, Bongeopsa Temple” are inscribed on the lid, suggesting that production of the Incense Burner was commissioned by Monk Wonjun of Bongeopsa Temple, rather than Wonjun having produced it by himself. Another inscription on the pedestal indicates that 15.6 kg of copper went into the casting of the incense burner. According to the inscriptions, it is assumed that the incense burner was produced in the 13th century at Bongeopsa Temple, which existed during the early Goryeo Dynasty.