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Stone Pedestal at Godalsa Temple Site, Yeoju

여주 고달사지 석조대좌 ( 驪州 高達寺址 石造臺座 )

Heritage Search Detail
Classification Treasure
Name of Cultural Properties Stone Pedestal at Godalsa Temple Site, Yeoju
Quantity 1 stone pedestal
Designated Date 1963.01.21
Age Goryeo
Address 420-5, Sanggyo-ri, Bungnae-myeon, Yeoju-gun, Gyeonggi-do

This stone pedestal was discovered at Godalsa Temple, Yeoju, which was built in 764 (the 23rd year of the reign of King Gyeongdeok of the Silla Dynasty) by persons whose identity remains unknown. This pedestal for a granite Buddha has been preserved in almost perfect condition, although the stone statue of Buddha has been lost.
The foundation of the pedestal consists of three parts, i.e., upper, middle, and lower stones, each of which is made of polished stone. The Buddha statue would have been placed on the upper stone, which is especially well polished, and a carving of 24 double-folded lotus flowers runs along both the upper and lower stones.
Despite being a huge square of stone, the pedestal creates a soft impression due to the rhythmical beauty and sense of animation generated by the engraved lotus flowers. This type of carving technique is similar to that seen on the lower base of the Stupa at Godalsa Temple Site (National Treasure No. 4). The arrangement of lotus flowers around a central flower was a common motif of the Goryeo Dynasty.
The pedestal, which is considered a masterpiece due to the excellence of the carving, is thought to date back to the late 10th century (early Goryeo Dynasty) because the stupa found at the same site follows the traditional construction method of the early Goryeo Dynasty.