A Rare and Ancient Korean Buddhist Masterpiece Unveiled
A Centuries-Old Treasure
A remarkable Korean Buddhist sculpture, dating back to the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392), has gone on display at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. This exquisite gilded wooden figure of Gwaneum, the bodhisattva of compassion, is the oldest surviving sculpture of its kind in Korea.
The Compassionate Bodhisattva
Bodhisattvas are enlightened beings who choose to remain connected to the material world to help humanity. Gwaneum, also known as Avalokiteshvara in Sanskrit, is the most popular bodhisattva in East Asia. People often turn to Gwaneum for care, kindness, and protection.
Exceptional Craftsmanship
The Goryeo period was a time of great artistic achievement in Korea. The Gwaneum sculpture at the Sackler Gallery is a testament to the skill and artistry of the era’s woodcarvers and gilders. The figure stands two feet tall and is constructed of 15 pieces of fir, held together by staples and nails. It wears an elaborate metal crown and features a crystal urna on its forehead, representing the third eye or vision into the divine world.
Sacred Dedication
When the Gwaneum sculpture was completed in the 13th century, it was filled with sacred texts and symbolic objects, both in its head and body. This act of dedication gave the sculpture spiritual life for believers. The materials transformed it from a mere piece of carved wood into an embodiment of divine presence.
Historical Context
Buddhism reached Korea in the fourth century and became widely practiced by the time the Gwaneum sculpture was created. The sculpture’s rich materials and elaborate craftsmanship suggest that it was commissioned by a wealthy patron, likely a member of the royal court.
During the Goryeo period, Korea faced invasions and occupations, which led to the destruction of much of its material culture, including Buddhist sculptures. The survival of this Gwaneum sculpture is a testament to its enduring significance for the Korean people.
Contemporary Significance
The exhibition of the Gwaneum sculpture at the Sackler Gallery is not only a chance to admire a rare work of art but also an opportunity to learn about the history and significance of Buddhism in Korea. The sculpture is complemented by a scroll from the Freer|Sackler collection, depicting Gwaneum in its dwelling place on the rocks above the sea’s waves.
The juxtaposition of these two depictions of Gwaneum, made within a century of each other, provides visitors with a unique glimpse into the enduring appeal and transformative power of this compassionate bodhisattva.
Additional Highlights
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Recent research, including X-rays and material analysis, has revealed that the sculpture contains contents from different time periods, indicating that it was opened up and re-dedicated at least once.
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A 3D scan of the sculpture allows viewers to visualize its construction and the original placement of the dedication materials.
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In conjunction with the exhibition, Korean Buddhist monks will demonstrate a contemporary dedication ritual, providing visitors with insights into the living traditions of Buddhism.
“Sacred Dedication: A Korean Buddhist Masterpiece” is on view at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery of Art through March 22, 2020.