Stories of Koreas National Treasures 73
Photo Credit : Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea
Gilt-bronze Standing Buddha Triad with Inscription of the Gyemi Year
(Three Kingdoms Period)
🏯 1. Three Buddhas Preserved in Gilt Bronze
The Gilt-bronze Standing Buddha Triad with Inscription of the Gyemi Year is a remarkable Buddhist sculpture from ancient Korea.
At the center stands a Buddha, accompanied by two smaller attendant figures on either side.
Although relatively small in size, the triad conveys a strong sense of dignity and spiritual presence.
Its slender figures, gentle expressions, and flowing robes reflect the early development of Buddhist sculpture on the Korean Peninsula.
Most importantly, an inscription associated with the Gyemi year provides valuable clues about the religious beliefs and artistic traditions of the period.
🪨 2. Delicate Craftsmanship in Gilt Bronze
The triad was made of bronze and covered with a layer of gold, a technique widely used for important Buddhist images.
The central Buddha stands upright with a calm expression, while the two attendants are arranged symmetrically beside him.
The figures have elongated bodies and softly carved robes.
Rather than emphasizing physical realism, the sculptor focused on creating a sense of serenity and sacred dignity.
The harmonious arrangement of the three figures shows how early Korean Buddhist artists transformed religious belief into a carefully balanced visual composition.
🌄 3. An Inscription That Gives the Statue a Voice
One of the most significant features of this treasure is its inscription.
The inscription includes the cyclical date Gyemi (癸未) and records information connected with the creation and dedication of the Buddhist image.
Such inscriptions are extremely valuable because they allow historians to understand not only when and why Buddhist images were created, but also the beliefs and wishes of the people who commissioned them.
The triad therefore preserves two kinds of history at once:
the history expressed through its artistic form,
and the history recorded through written words.
🌿 4. A Window into Early Korean Buddhism
Buddhism became one of the most influential cultural forces in ancient Korea.
Along with religious teachings came new forms of sculpture, architecture, painting, and craftsmanship.
This gilt-bronze triad reflects that important period of cultural transformation.
Designated National Treasure No. 73, it is valued not simply for its age or golden surface, but for the information it provides about the development of early Korean Buddhist art and faith.
Centuries have passed since the figures were created, yet their quiet expressions still communicate the hopes of people who sought peace, protection, and enlightenment.
💬 5. A Warm Reflection
“Gold may fade with time,
but the wish placed within it can remain.
These three quiet figures remind us
that a prayer made centuries ago
can still speak to the human heart today.”
📌 Notice
The National Treasure number indicates the order of designation, not a ranking of value.
For more information, please visit the 👉 National Heritage Portal.
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