Stone Seated Buddhas in Bukji-ri, Yeongju (Treasure No. 220-1)

These three Buddha statues, currently kept at Jaindang Hall of Buseoksa Temple, were found at the sites to the east of Buseoksa Temple. The two Vairocana(Cosmic Light) Buddhas flanking the central Buddha have been designated as Treasure.

These Buddha statues complete with well-preserved pedestal and halo date from the Unified Silla Period (668 - 935). Their respective octagonal bottom platforms feature exquisitely carved images of an incense burner and lions; their middle platforms images of the seated Buddha and Bodhisattvas offering lotus flowers to him, among others. The Buddha in the east has an oval face and displays a gentle smile, while the one in the west has a more imposing appearance despite the gentle contours of its body.

Designated as Treasure in February 2010, the central Shakyamuni Buddha is characterized by a round face, and a robe with floral patterns and gentle yet realistically expressed creases, with the fingers of the right hand pointing downward symbolizing the subjugation of demons. The images of an incense burner, lions, and Bodhisattvas with clasped hands held upward carved on the tall three-tiered pedestal are typical patterns of Buddha images made in the 9th century (Unified Silla Period).

Judging by the sculpting technique, it is presumed that the three images were all made by the same person.

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