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A Study of the Dry-lacquer Avalokiteśvara in Pensive Pose at Kirimsa Temple, Dated 1501

김지은

동국대학교

Published: June 2025 · No. 326 · pp. 129-159

DOI: https://doi.org/10.31065/kjah.326.202506.005

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Abstract

This paper examines the Dry-Lacquer Avalokiteśvara in Pensive Pose enshrined at Kirimsa Temple and dated to 1501, with the aim of identifying its historical context, stylistic features, and significance within the history of Korean Buddhist sculpture. A new reading of the ink inscription reveals that the statue was originally enshrined at Sŏsuam Hermitage on Mount Hamwŏl and was intended as an image of Avalokiteśvara of Naksan (Naksan Kwanŭm), the central deity of worship at that site. At least six donors participated in the commissioning of this image, with significant financial support from the yangban elite and the leadership of the monk Jihee, a figure known for his expertise in Hwaŏm (Huayan) teachings nso much so that the temple was referred to as “Hwaŏmsa.” The iconography reflects the widespread belief in Avalokiteśvara of Naksan, a popular cult at the time, and the statue was likely created as a protective deity invoked against maritime disasters in the Kyŏngsang region. This image is the only extant example among known pensive bodhisattva statues to be explicitly identified as “Naksan Avalokiteśvara,” underscoring its unique devotional and regional identity. Stylistically, the statue incorporates elements of the Ming-dynasty Tibetan style, which gained popularity in early Chosŏn sculpture.
Keywords: 건칠불(Dry-lacquered Buddhist statue)기림사(Kirimsa Temple)건칠보살상(Dry-lacquered bodhisattva statue)낙산관음(Potalaka-Avalokitesvara)지희(Chi Hŭi智熙)