Kumgangsan Baekhwaam Hermitage Jewoldang Stupa

NORTH KOREA, Kangwon, Kumgang

The funerary stupa of Master Jewoldang is located within Baekhwaam (White Flower Hermitage) on Kumgangsan (Diamond Mountain). It was built in 1635 during the Joseon dynasty. Master Jewoldang was the disciple of Master Seosan.
The stupa is 4.5 m high and stands on a four-layer octagonal base. The lowest layer is plain while the second layer has framed counter-reliefs on each side. The sloping top of the second layer has floral decorations. The third layer is indented and the sides are framed; however, it is difficult to distinguish the patterns. The upper layer is carved with lotus and cloud designs. Immediately above the base there is a round lotus disk which supports the stupa body. The body is spherical, smooth and unadorned. Above the spherical body there is an octagonal pyramidal roof whose eaves are slightly upturned at the corners. The spire consists of stacked rings followed by a jewel.
This stupa is the largest of the seven stupas at Baekhwaam Hermitage. It was constructed three years after the funerary stupa of Master Seosan. The design is very unique and it has therefore received special attention.