The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on July 2 that it plans to designate the "Wooden Statue of Jeoseokcheon and its Relics" from Pyeongchang Sangwon Temple as national treasures.
The "Wooden Statue of Jeoseokcheon" is a rare example of a sculpture of Jeoseokcheon, which is typically depicted in Buddhist paintings. Based on restoration records of relics discovered in 2008 and the inscription from the Wooden Statue of Munsu (National Treasure), it is believed to have been created before 1645 during the early Joseon period.
The statue's seated posture, plump face, and prominently raised topknot reflect stylistic elements from the late Goryeo period. It is considered a significant resource for understanding early Joseon Buddhist sculpture and the related ritual practices of that time.
The Cultural Heritage Administration also announced plans to designate "The Third Volume of the Early Printed Commentary on the Yogacarabhumi" and "The Collected Works of Sam Bong" as national treasures.
The "Third Volume of the Early Printed Commentary on the Yogacarabhumi," housed at the Horim Museum, is part of a 100-volume work translated by the Tang dynasty monk Xuanzang. This particular volume is the only known edition of its kind, making it extremely rare.
The "Collected Works of Sam Bong," held at the Seoul Museum of History, is a compilation by Jeong Dojeon, a key figure in the founding of the Joseon dynasty. This first volume, printed in 1465, represents a reconstruction of texts that were lost during the Prince's Rebellion.
The "Anseong Goshinwangji," located at the Jangsu History Exhibition Hall, is an appointment document issued in 1414 by King Taejong, designating an individual named Anseong to a position in Gangwon Province. Written in semi-cursive script, it contains seven lines and bears the seal of the Joseon king. The term "wangji," used before 1435, illustrates the evolution of document regulations.
The Cultural Heritage Administration will collect and review public opinions on the four cultural heritage items, including the "Wooden Statue of Jeoseokcheon and its Relics" and "The Collected Works of Sam Bong," during a 30-day notification period before submitting them for review by the National Heritage Committee for official designation as national treasures.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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