Bocheonsa Temple: Seated Buddha

SOUTH KOREA, North Gyeongsang, Gumi; Unified Silla dynasty

The statue was excavated comparatively recently. Since the base was buried under soil, it remained in relatively good condition. The exposed upper portion was heavily damaged and eroded, and required restoration. The statue is tentatively dated from the mid-9th century and was listed as Treasure No. 492 in 1968.
The Buddha sits in full lotus position with the right hand in bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra. A robe covering both shoulders opens to reveal an inner garment secured with a knot. The rounded folds of the skirt over the knees are typical of the late Unified Silla dynasty (668–935). The elaborate mandorla is surrounded by seated Buddha figures.
The stand for the Buddha’s lotus throne consists of four tiers. A shallow square base is surmounted by an octagon with shallow decorative insets on which rests a pedestal decorated with lotus petals. The waist section is divided into eight panels featuring seated Bodhisattvas with palms joined in reverence and apsaras holding incense burners or worshipping.