Yangji

KOREA; Silla dynasty

Yangji was a monk, sculptor, and calligrapher during the reigns of Empress Seondeok (632–646) and King Munmu (661–680) of the Silla dynasty. According to historical records, he stayed at Seokjangsa Temple. The temple was named and renowned for Yangji’s monk’s staff, which was said to carry magical powers.
Artwork by Yangji include the statues of the Buddha Triad at Yeongmyosa Temple; the Buddha Triad at Beomnimsa Temple; Pagodas and Three Thousand Buddhas at Seokjangsa Temple; and the inscriptions of the pagodas and statues unearthed at the site of Seokjangsa Temple. His calligraphy was also well-regarded, and the carved horizontal inscribed boards of Yeongmyosa Temple and Beomnimsa Temple were based on his calligraphy.