Silsangsa Temple Yaksuam Hermitage: Sakyamuni Buddha Assembly

SOUTH KOREA, North Jeolla, Namwon; Joseon dynasty

This artwork is located within the Yaksuam Hermitage. It depicts Sakyamuni Buddha teaching a host of heavenly beings and was listed as Treasure No. 421 in 1965.
The relief is separated into two distinct registers. The Buddha sits in full lotus position in the center at the bottom. The back of the throne serves as a mandorla. A long-stalked lotus bud grows out from the mandorla and supports a small, seated Buddha. The lotus extends to the top of the frame and divides the composition into two symmetrical halves. The two disciples, Mahakasyapa and Ananda, stand directly next to the lotus at the top. The rest of the figures are of Bodhisattvas standing on lotuses. Most figures carry attributes, but the disciples and the two Bodhisattvas next to them have their hands joined in reverence. Lotuses that enclose small Buddha images separate the figures in the top row while larger lotuses frame the composition. An inscription dates the work to 1782 during the rule of King Jeongjo (reigned 1776–1800).