Stone Seated Vairocana Buddha at Biroam Hermitage of Donghwasa Temple, Daegu

This seated Vairocana Buddha is depicted grasping the left index finger with the right hand, a gesture that signifies that there is little difference between enlightenment and stupidity. The Buddha's robe, which covers both his shoulders, is carved with small regular folds, while his round face is characterized by small eyes, nose and mouth. The overall style of the statue, with its narrow shoulders and simplified lower body, suggests that it might have been made in the mid-9th century during the late Unified Silla period. Behind the statue's head is a mandorla, which symbolizes the light that emanates from the Buddha. It is pear-like in shape, and is carved with eleven small images of Buddha, including a triad on top and four on each side. The Buddha is seated on a pedestal consisting of three parts: a middle decorated with seven lions and swirling clouds, and upper and lower parts decorated with a lotus petal design. The pedestal itself is supported by an octagonal foundation stone. Historians presume that this statue was built in 863 along with the Three-Story Stone Pagoda at Biroam Hermitage of Donghwasa Temple, and consider it very valuable for research on the sculptural styles of Unified Silla period.

Source: Korea Heritage Service signboard ↗ · collected 2026-10-08