Seated Buddha

KOREA; Unified Silla dynasty

The sculpture was probably discovered at Bowonsa Temple in Seosan, South Chungcheong. It is one of the rare pieces cast in iron during the 8th century. The head, with its serene features, is small in comparison to the robust body. The monastic robe leaves the right shoulder bare and its varied folds are dynamically treated. The figure sits in full lotus position and the missing right hand was probably in bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra. The hair and usnisa are unusually smooth, while other features, such as the extended earlobes, the urna, and the three lines on the neck are listed among the Buddha’s Thirty-Two Marks of Excellence.