[Treasure] A stern Buddha takes a seat on Mount Wolchul

Name: Rock-carved Seated Buddha in Mount Wolchul

Period: Late Unified Silla Period (676-935)

Location: Yeongam County, South Jeolla

Status: National Treasure No. 144

A section of the rocky cliff northwest of Gujeongbong Peak of Mt. Wolchul in South Jeolla was cut to make a space for an 8.6-meter (28.2-foot) Buddha image.

Next to the right lap of the Buddha image, an 86-centimeter (34-inch) image of a baby monk with both hands clasped was carved in the direction of the image.

The face of the Buddha image is portrayed to be rather large, looking stern and energetic.

The thin robe displays the curves of the body.

Robe wrinkles are expressed in thin lines, with the robe extending down to the pedestal.

The fingers of the right hand point below, and the left hand is placed on the lap with the palm facing up.

Overall, the Rock-carved Seated Buddha in Mount Wolchul gives an impression of stability and magnanimity.

The disproportionate, rigid expression of the body (such as the large face compared to the small body, too-thin arms) leads researchers to believe that it was made between the late Unified Silla Period (676-935) and the early Goryeo Period (918-1394).