Stone Seated Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva of Chamdangam Hermitage, Seonunsa Temple, Gochang

The stone statue depicts Ksitigarbha, a compassionate Bodhisattva, who vowed to postpone Buddhahood in order to liberate and edify all unfortunate sentient beings. In Korea, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattvas are generally portrayed with shaven heads, holding Cintamani Jewel while simultaneously wielding a Khakkhara Staff. Contrastingly, the Stone Seated Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva of Seonunsa Chamdangam wears a hempen hood -- a common feature found on Bodhisattva statues during the late Goryeo (late 14th century) to early Joseon period (early 15th century). The statue was likely constructed in the same period.

Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, seated in meditative pose, is wearing a hempen hood. The Cintamani is held on the right hand while the left hand is placed gracefully on the lap. These figures, which are often seen in Budhist tapestries, are accurately embodied in statues, making them valuable resource for studying the beliefs and forms of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva at that time. Ksitigarbha sits on a rock shaped pedestal which fully consist of the upper, the middle and the lower parts. It is unclear whether it was built together or separately.

The statue, which is made up of agalmatolite, is one of the few stone depictions of Ksitigarbha that have survived intact and well- preserved to this day, making it highly valuable for research purpose. The full bodied Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva sits well balanced as it is molded in divine form. From bold line of Cintamani to delicately folded long cowl covering the head completely secured with a band, the statue is aesthetically exceptional. The hooded Ksitigarbha bodhisattva is a prime example of the Ksitigarbha faith prevalent at the time in Seonunsa Temple, Gochang.

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