Temple Artwork - Dale's Korean Temple Adventures

Korean Buddhist temples and hermitages are filled with a variety of artwork that might not be completely understandable or discernible to the viewer. Whether it’s a painting, a statue, a pagoda, or stupa, the symbolic meaning might simply be lost on those observing it. These artistic expressions of Buddhism are rich with meaning. And one gets a better sense of what Korean Buddhism and the temple are attempting to express to those that encounter it. Often, these items aren’t isolated; but instead, play in concert with one another for a fuller expression of their religious significance and symmetry. Below is a list of potential artistic items you might find at a Korean Buddhist temple. Click on the name below to follow the link.

1. Palsang-do – The Eight Scenes from the Life of the Buddha Murals: 팔상도

2. Shimu-do – The Ten Ox-Herding Murals: 심우도

3. Tap – The Korean Pagoda: 탑

4. Biseok – Stele: 비석

5. Budo – Stupa: 부도

6. Gamno-do – The Sweet Dew Mural: 감로도

7. Shinjung Taenghwa – The Guardian Mural: 신중 탱화

8. Podae-Hwasang – The Hempen Bag: 포대화상

9. Dancheong – Temple Colours: 단청

10. The Sermon on Vulture Peak Painting – Yeongsan Hoesang-do: 영산 회상도

11. Yong – Dragons: 용

12. Gwimyeon – The Monster Mask: 귀면