Model of Temple Hall

KOREA; Goryeo dynasty

Listed as National Treasure No. 73 in 1962, this model hall has the architectural features of a real structure. Consisting of a base, body, and roof, the Sumeru base is quite low and the body is surrounded by a balustrade with a gap in the front leading to the hall, in which a golden Buddha triad is enshrined. The central Buddha image is depicted seated in full lotus position on a Sumeru throne, with the right hand in the abhaya (fearlessness) mudra, and the left hand resting on the knee. There is a flaming nimbus and mandorla behind the Buddha. Attending Bodhisattvas stand to each side of the Buddha, and are mirror images of one another. The roof is distinctive and includes such architectural features as the finely detailed bracket sets, a hip roof, and exaggerated ridge and hip ornaments.