19.3 Baekje and Silla period Buddhist sculpture
4 min read•august 5, 2024
The and kingdoms, emerging in the southwest and southeast of Korea, embraced Buddhism in the 6th century. This religious shift greatly influenced their art and culture, leading to a flourishing of Buddhist sculpture during the .
Both kingdoms produced stunning Buddha statues in bronze, stone, and gilt-bronze. These works showcased unique styles, blending Chinese influences with local traditions. The sculptures, like those at , reflect the deep religious devotion and artistic mastery of the era.
Baekje and Silla Kingdoms
Historical Context of Baekje and Silla
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- Baekje Kingdom emerged in the southwest of the Korean peninsula in the 3rd century CE
- Silla Kingdom arose in the southeast of the Korean peninsula in the 1st century BCE
- Both kingdoms adopted Buddhism as their state religion in the 6th century CE, which greatly influenced their art and culture
- Korean Buddhist art flourished during the Three Kingdoms period (57 BCE - 668 CE), particularly in Baekje and Silla
Spread and Influence of Buddhism
- Buddhism was introduced to Korea from China in the 4th century CE via the northern kingdom of Goguryeo
- The Baekje Kingdom actively promoted Buddhism and sent monks to study in China, who returned with Buddhist texts, relics, and artistic styles
- Silla Kingdom also embraced Buddhism, and many temples and monasteries were built during this period
- Buddhist art became a means of expressing religious devotion and political power in both Baekje and Silla
Buddha Statues
Bronze Buddha Statues
- Bronze was a popular material for creating Buddha statues in Baekje and Silla
- The casting technique involved creating a clay mold, pouring molten bronze into the mold, and then removing the clay to reveal the finished statue
- often depicted the Buddha in a seated meditation pose (dhyanamudra) or with his hand raised in a gesture of teaching (vitarkamudra)
- The Baekje Kingdom produced many fine examples of bronze Buddha statues, such as the (6th century CE) from the Neungsan-ri Temple site
Stone Buddha Statues
- Stone was another common material for Buddha statues in Baekje and Silla
- Stone statues were carved from a single block of granite or other hard stone using chisels and other tools
- often depicted the Buddha seated in meditation on a lotus throne, symbolizing his enlightenment
- The Silla Kingdom created many impressive stone Buddha statues, such as the Buddha triads at Seokguram Grotto (8th century CE)
Gilt-bronze Statues
- were made by covering a bronze statue with a thin layer of gold leaf
- This technique added a luxurious and radiant quality to the statue, symbolizing the Buddha's spiritual illumination
- Gilt-bronze statues were often commissioned by royal patrons or wealthy aristocrats as a display of their devotion and status
- The Silla Kingdom produced some of the finest examples of gilt-bronze statues, such as the Gilt-bronze Maitreya Bodhisattva (6th-7th century CE) from the Hwangnyongsa Temple site
Maitreya Buddha
- is a bodhisattva who is believed to be the future Buddha, destined to appear on earth and achieve complete enlightenment
- Statues of Maitreya Buddha were popular in Baekje and Silla as a symbol of hope and salvation
- Maitreya Buddha is often depicted seated in a pensive pose with one leg crossed over the other knee (bhadrāsana), or standing with his right hand raised in a gesture of teaching
- The Baekje Kingdom created several notable examples of Maitreya Buddha statues, such as the Gilt-bronze Pensive Maitreya Bodhisattva (7th century CE) from the Seosan Maaesamjonbulsang site
Artistic Elements
Iconography in Baekje and Silla Buddha Statues
- Buddhist refers to the symbolic elements and attributes depicted in Buddha statues and other artworks
- Common iconographic elements in Baekje and Silla Buddha statues include the ushnisha (cranial protuberance), urna (dot between the eyebrows), elongated earlobes, and mudras (hand gestures)
- The lotus flower is another important iconographic symbol, representing purity, enlightenment, and the Buddha's transcendence of the material world
- The iconography of Baekje and Silla Buddha statues reflects the influence of Indian and Chinese Buddhist art, as well as local artistic traditions
Stylistic Influences on Baekje and Silla Buddha Statues
- The style of Baekje and Silla Buddha statues was influenced by the artistic traditions of China, particularly the Northern Wei (386-534 CE) and Tang (618-907 CE) dynasties
- Baekje Buddha statues often feature a more naturalistic and humanistic style, with soft, rounded facial features and flowing drapery
- Silla Buddha statues tend to have a more idealized and abstract style, with elongated proportions, sharp facial features, and stylized drapery
- Both Baekje and Silla Buddha statues incorporate elements of Korean artistic traditions, such as the use of symmetry, balance, and refined craftsmanship
Seokguram Grotto
- Seokguram Grotto is a Buddhist cave temple located on Mount Toham in Gyeongju, South Korea
- The grotto was constructed in the 8th century CE during the reign of Silla King Gyeongdeok and is considered a masterpiece of Silla Buddhist art
- The main Buddha statue at Seokguram Grotto is a monumental seated figure carved from granite, depicting the Buddha in a state of deep meditation
- The grotto also features a series of relief carvings depicting bodhisattvas, guardians, and other Buddhist figures, arranged in a symbolic mandala pattern
- Seokguram Grotto exemplifies the sophisticated artistic and engineering skills of the Silla Kingdom, as well as the deep religious devotion and cultural exchange of the Three Kingdoms period
Key Terms to Review (22)
Avatamsaka Sutra: The Avatamsaka Sutra, also known as the Flower Garland Sutra, is a significant Mahayana Buddhist text that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all phenomena and the concept of the Buddha's enlightenment. This scripture is known for its elaborate descriptions of the Buddha's realm and teachings, which played a crucial role in shaping Buddhist philosophy and art in East Asia, particularly during the Baekje and Silla periods.
Baekje: Baekje was one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, founded in the early 18th century BCE, and lasted until its fall in 660 CE. It was known for its advanced culture, trade relations, and significant contributions to the spread of Buddhism in Korea, particularly influencing the development of art and architecture during its height.
Bronze buddha statues: Bronze Buddha statues are intricately crafted sculptures made from bronze, depicting the figure of Buddha, an important symbol in Buddhism representing enlightenment and spiritual awakening. These statues played a vital role in Buddhist art and architecture, especially during the Baekje and Silla periods in Korea, where they showcased advanced metalworking techniques and spiritual devotion. Their design often reflects regional styles and religious significance, making them key artifacts in understanding the cultural and artistic developments of the time.
Bronze casting: Bronze casting is a metalworking process that involves creating objects by pouring molten bronze into molds. This technique has played a crucial role in East Asian art, influencing various artistic traditions and the development of significant cultural artifacts throughout history.
Buddhist sculptors of Baekje: Buddhist sculptors of Baekje were artisans in ancient Korea known for their exceptional skill in creating Buddhist sculptures during the Baekje Kingdom, which flourished from the 1st to the 7th century. Their works reflect a blend of indigenous Korean artistic traditions and influences from China and India, showcasing intricate details and spiritual themes that aimed to convey Buddhist teachings.
Chinese Influence: Chinese influence refers to the impact and spread of Chinese cultural, artistic, and architectural practices across East Asia, particularly as a result of trade, migration, and the introduction of Buddhism. This influence is evident in various forms of architecture and art, shaping religious spaces and visual representations in neighboring regions.
Gilt-bronze maitreya bodhisattva: The gilt-bronze maitreya bodhisattva is a significant sculpture from East Asian Buddhist art, depicting Maitreya, the future Buddha, in a highly ornate and decorative style. This type of sculpture often features gilding techniques that enhance its visual appeal and signify the importance of Maitreya within Buddhist practice, particularly during the Baekje and Silla periods in Korea. The bodhisattva's serene expression and elaborate attire convey both spiritual grace and artistic excellence, making it a prime example of the religious and cultural exchange occurring in East Asia at the time.
Gilt-bronze statues: Gilt-bronze statues are sculptures made of bronze that are coated with a thin layer of gold, creating a rich and luxurious appearance. These statues were significant in the artistic traditions of East Asia, particularly during the Baekje and Silla periods, where they were often created for religious purposes and used in Buddhist contexts, highlighting the intertwining of artistry and spirituality.
Iconography: Iconography is the study of symbols and imagery in art, focusing on the representation of subjects, themes, and concepts within a work. It helps to interpret visual elements by understanding their cultural and historical significance, revealing deeper meanings and messages that the artwork conveys. This understanding is essential when analyzing various forms of artistic expression, such as figure painting and sculpture, where specific symbols can indicate broader ideas or narratives.
Indigenous korean styles: Indigenous Korean styles refer to the unique artistic and architectural expressions that emerged in Korea, reflecting its cultural identity and historical context. These styles evolved through a blend of native traditions and influences from neighboring regions, particularly during the Baekje and Silla periods, which were pivotal in the development of Korean Buddhist sculpture and other art forms.
Lotus Sutra: The Lotus Sutra is a central text in Mahayana Buddhism, revered for its teachings on the nature of reality and the path to enlightenment. It emphasizes the idea that all beings have the potential for Buddhahood and introduces key concepts such as skillful means and the universality of Buddha nature. This sutra has significantly influenced various Buddhist traditions, including those in East Asia, particularly during the Baekje and Silla periods.
Maitreya Buddha: Maitreya Buddha is a future Buddha in Buddhist eschatology, who is expected to appear on Earth to teach the Dharma anew. This figure symbolizes hope and the promise of enlightenment for all beings, particularly in times of spiritual decline. Maitreya's representation in sculpture, especially during the Baekje and Silla periods, reflects the artistic styles and cultural exchanges of early Korean Buddhism.
Mudra: A mudra is a symbolic hand gesture used in Buddhist art and practice, conveying specific meanings and spiritual states. These gestures are essential for communicating complex ideas and emotions in visual representations, often appearing in sculptures, paintings, and ritual practices. Each mudra embodies particular teachings and narratives within Buddhism, serving as a vital tool for meditation and enlightenment.
Naturalism: Naturalism refers to an artistic style that aims to depict subjects as they appear in nature, emphasizing realistic representation and detail. This approach often focuses on the accurate portrayal of light, shadow, and textures, resulting in lifelike forms that convey a sense of depth and three-dimensionality. It reflects a shift from stylized or abstract representations to a more observational approach in art, capturing the essence of the natural world.
Pagoda: A pagoda is a tiered tower with multiple eaves, commonly found in East Asian architecture, especially associated with Buddhist temple complexes. It serves both as a religious structure and a symbol of cultural identity, reflecting the unique artistic and architectural traditions of various East Asian regions.
Seokguram Grotto: The Seokguram Grotto is a remarkable example of Buddhist architecture and art located in South Korea, constructed during the Silla period in the 8th century. This man-made cave features a monumental statue of Buddha surrounded by various bodhisattvas and celestial beings, all meticulously carved from granite. It exemplifies the fusion of spirituality and artistry characteristic of the era, showcasing the Silla kingdom's devotion to Buddhism and the exceptional craftsmanship of its artisans.
Silla: Silla was one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, known for its advancements in art, culture, and technology, particularly during the period from the 1st century CE to the 10th century CE. This kingdom played a significant role in the introduction of iron technology and Buddhist practices in Korea, which influenced its artistic expressions and architectural developments.
Stone buddha statues: Stone buddha statues are sculptural representations of the Buddha carved from various types of stone, serving as significant religious and artistic expressions in Buddhist culture. These statues often reflect the beliefs, styles, and artistic techniques prevalent in the regions where they were created, particularly during the Baekje and Silla periods in Korea. They symbolize devotion, meditation, and the spread of Buddhism across East Asia, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and theological significance.
Stone carving: Stone carving is the art of shaping and sculpting stone to create decorative or functional objects, often involving intricate designs and forms. In the context of East Asian art, particularly during the Baekje and Silla periods, stone carving played a crucial role in the creation of Buddhist sculptures and architectural elements, reflecting both religious devotion and artistic skill.
Stupa: A stupa is a mound-like structure that serves as a Buddhist shrine, symbolizing the enlightened mind of the Buddha and his teachings. These architectural forms are essential in Buddhist art and architecture, representing various aspects of the Buddha's life and the path to enlightenment through their iconography and symbolism. Stupas are not just physical structures but also significant in ritual practices and spiritual contemplation.
Stylization: Stylization refers to the deliberate simplification or exaggeration of forms and details in artistic expression, often used to convey particular meanings or aesthetics. In the context of Buddhist sculpture from the Baekje and Silla periods, stylization is crucial as it reflects both religious significance and cultural values, influencing how figures are represented to embody spiritual ideals rather than naturalistic accuracy.
Three Kingdoms Period: The Three Kingdoms Period refers to a historical era in Korea from the 1st century BCE to the 7th century CE, characterized by the existence of three rival kingdoms: Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla. This period saw significant advancements in technology, culture, and art, including the introduction of iron and the development of distinct styles of painting and sculpture that reflected the spiritual beliefs of the time.