Taepyeong: Medicine Buddha

SOUTH KOREA, Gyeonggi, Gwangju; Goryeo dynasty

This relief occupies the top of a pointed rock that has an inscription on the left which dates it to 977. Both the precise carving technique and the fluid folds of the garment display the early style of the Goryeo dynasty (918–1392). According to the Geographical Survey of the Eastern Kingdom, the carving was once contained within Yakjeong Temple. It was listed as Treasure No. 981 in 1989.
The Medicine Buddha is depicted in low relief, seated in full lotus position on a lotus throne supported by a four-column base. The right hand probably forms the abhaya (fearlessness) mudra and the left holds a medicine pot. A triple-ringed aureole behind the Buddha intersects with a similarly ringed nimbus, while a flame-patterned mandorla encloses both.
This image serves as a valuable research reference and is highly regarded in the history of Korean sculptures. The display of balanced proportions shows expansive knowledge and skill by the artist.