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Nangsan Rock Carvings
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Nangsan Rock Carvings
SOUTH KOREA, North Gyeongsang, Gyeongju
Official records suggest that this is the site where King Munmu (reigned 661-680) was cremated. The triad at the base of a curving rock is composed of a Bodhisattva and two attendants. Though the rock is now fissured, the main sculpture seems to be a seated Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, measuring 90 cm in height, wearing a stole, and flanked by armored attendants. The attendant on the right holds a sword in one hand, while the left attendant holds another weapon. They may represent Dharma protectors. It is inferred that the carving, dating back to the Unified Silla dynasty (668-935), was made for the religious benefit of the deceased king. It was listed as Treasure No. 665 in 1980. |
