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Rock-carved Seated Buddha in Bulgok Valley of Namsan Mountain, Gyeongju

경주 남산 불곡 마애여래좌상 ( 慶州 南山 佛谷 磨崖如來坐像 )

Heritage Search Detail
Classification Treasure
Name of Cultural Properties Rock-carved Seated Buddha in Bulgok Valley of Namsan Mountain, Gyeongju
Quantity 1 Buddha statue
Designated Date 1963.01.21
Age Three Kingdoms
Address San 56, Inwang-dong, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do

This rock-carved seated Buddha was carved into a one-meter-deep stone aperture in a rock at the eastern foot of Namsan Mountain in Gyeongju. The head of the Buddha, which appears to be wearing a hood that covers its ears, is looking downwards; and a smile beams right across the round face, with its slightly swollen eyes and deep mouth. In this regard, it is similar to the Seated Stone Buddha in Inwang-ri, although it has a more beautiful feminine posture overall. The clothing hanging from both shoulders to the pedestal is beautifully carved, like a wave pattern, forming an attractive harmony with the Buddha’s entire body. This rock-carved Buddha statue, the oldest of the Silla statues on Namsan Mountain, is assumed to have been made during the late Three Kingdoms Period. The valley is called Buddha's Valley owing to the presence of this Buddha statue.