Samneung Valley Rock Carvings: Six Buddhas

SOUTH KOREA, North Gyeongsang, Gyeongju; Unified Silla dynasty

Situated on the mountainside, this carved rock is about 4 m in height and 7 m in width. Its coarse texture allows only sketchy incisions. The carvings are listed as Provincial Tangible Cultural Property No. 21.
The rock is divided into two sections, on both faces of which are three figures. The Buddha to the left stands on a pedestal, flanked by two kneeling Bodhisattvas holding offerings. Their abbreviated features and rigidity are typical of the Unified Silla dynasty.
The main Buddha, located on the rear of the rock, sits in full lotus positon on a lotus throne, with the right hand raised and the left resting in the lap. The figure is flanked by two standing Bodhisattvas. Fissuring and an overhang made carving difficult. There are four holes on the rock and traces of a wooden building, suggesting that the Buddhas were originally sheltered.