Mulgeolri: Vairocana Buddha

SOUTH KOREA, Gangwon, Hongcheon; Unified Silla dynasty

Although the figure is damaged and worn, and the original mandorla is now missing, enough features remain to assign it to the final period of the Silla dynasty. It was listed as Treasure No. 542 in 1971.
Vairocana Buddha sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne, wearing a monastic robe that covers both shoulders. The folds about the shoulders are fan-shaped and fall in vertical parallels over the arms. The raised hands form the bodhyangi (wisdom fist) mudra, with the left hand wrapped around the index finger of the right hand, which is the less common variation. The way the legs are crossed, with the left leg on top, is also uncommon.
The throne is in three sections, with an inverted lotus base supporting an octagonal section carved with an incense burner, musicians and figures making offerings. A hemispherical lotus throne rests on the octagonal section.