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National Treasure

Gilt-bronze Standing Bodhisattva

금동보살입상(1979) ( 金銅菩薩立像(1979) )

Heritage Search Detail
Classification National Treasure
Name of Cultural Properties Gilt-bronze Standing Bodhisattva
Quantity 1 Item
Designated Date 1979.04.30
Age Unified Silla
Address The Municipal Museum of Busan Metropolitan City, 63, UN pyeonghwa-ro, Nam-gu, Busan

This Standing gilt-bronze Bodhisattva, preserved in the Busan Metropolitan City Museum, stands firm with its head held high. Although the pedestal and mandorla are missing, the statue had been relatively well preserved. The Bodhisattva is crowned by the usnisa, and it seems to have been wearing a crown also since there is a small hole on the usnisa. The hair covering the forehead is depicted realistically, while there are no hairs on the back. The somewhat chubby face, carved with a half closed eyes, arched eyebrows and a high nose, wears a benign smile, giving the statue a beautiful and merciful impression. The earlobes almost long enough to touch the shoulder, while the neck has bold three neck-lines. The resiliently depicted body had a beautiful line from the full bosom to the slender waist. Upper half of the body is naked, while the robe covers both of the shoulders and hangs down to the feet. The left part of the robe had been missing. The lower part of the body was depicted with symmetric U-shaped folds. The Bodhisattva is not wearing many accessories except for the bracelets on both arms. The right hand is raised with the palm up, while the left hand with its middle finger is bent, seemingly holding a Buddhist ritual sprinkler. The statue, with the dignity and merciful look, is considered as one of the most magnificent artworks of the Unified Silla era.