The Stone Lotus Basin of Beopju Temple, Boeun
The basin is a miniature version of a stone pond and is said to have held water with lotus flowers in it.
In Buddhism, lotus flowers represent paradise.
The basin stands on an octagonal foundation made out of a huge rock carved to look like a half-open lotus bud.
Small petals are engraved around the lower part of the basin, while lotus flowers with two sets of petals are carved around the upper part.
The railings on the top are similar in shape to those seen in Dabo Pagoda at Bulguk Temple. The lower parapet wall is decorated with various patterns, adding to its beauty.
This brilliant and elegant stone basin, dating from around the eighth-century Unified Silla Period, deserves to be called a masterpiece of its kind. What is regrettable is that the body of the basin is severely cracking. Much of the upper railings are gone, severely damaging the original shape altogether.
Name: Stone Lotus Basin of Beopju Temple, Boeun
Period: Unified Silla Period
Location: Boeun, North Chungcheong
Status: National Treasures No. 64
*The photos and text for National Treasure are provided by the Cultural Heritage Administration. For more information, call (042) 481-4650 or visit www.cha.go.kr
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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