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Hanging Painting of Hwaeomsa Temple (The Vulture Peak Assembly)

화엄사 영산회 괘불탱 ( 華嚴寺 靈山會 掛佛幀 )

Heritage Search Detail
Classification National Treasure
Name of Cultural Properties Hanging Painting of Hwaeomsa Temple (The Vulture Peak Assembly)
Quantity 1 Item
Designated Date 1997.09.22
Age The 4th year of the reign of King Hyojong of Joseon (1653)
Address Hwaeomsa Temple, 539, Hwaeomsa-ro, Masan-myeon, Gurye-gun, Jeollanam-do

Gwaebul is a large Buddhist painting that is hung at the front garden of the sanctuary during sermons or ceremonies. This particular gwaebul is Yeongsan hoesangdo, which depicts the scene of Sakyamuni preaching. It was painted in 1653 and is 12.08m in length and 7.69m in width. It is now preserved at Hwaeomsa Temple. Sakyamuni is at the center and Bodhisattvas and the Four Guardian Kings stand surrounding him. Sakyamuni has light emitting from his head. He is sitting in the center and pointing his fingers downwards, which means that he is casting off demons. He has a round face and round shoulders. The touches of the brushes are delicate and sophisticated. The two Bodhisattvas, Munsubosal and Bohyeonbosal, are standing next to Sakyamuni assisting him. Two of the Four Guardian Kings are in the lower part of the picture and the other two are in the upper part. This makes it look as if the Four Guardian Kings are guarding the four corners. The Four Guardian Kings have round faces, large eyes, small noses and mouths, long ears. The picture is painted mainly in red and green. The middle tone colors are used and this creates a subtle lightness of mood. The patterns in various colors enhance the splendor of the picture. All the figures are slim and well balanced and painted in bright, vivid colors. All these features, including the splendid flower print, are characteristics of the 17th century Buddhist painting. This gwaebul is an excellent example of 17th century Buddhist painting and is also preserved in a favorable state.