Buyeo Muryangsa Mireuksan Hanging Painting Designated as National Treasure
The 'Buyeo Muryangsa Mireuksan Hanging Painting (괘불도)', measuring an impressive 14 meters in length, is set to be designated as a National Treasure. The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on March 6 that this artwork, considered a seminal piece in the history of hanging paintings (괘불), will be elevated from its previous status as a treasure. This marks the first national designation of a hanging painting in 28 years, following the simultaneous designation of seven pieces in 1997.
Hanging paintings are large Buddhist artworks displayed during outdoor ceremonies at temples. Their monumental scale and diverse iconography represent a unique cultural heritage found nowhere else in the world. The Muryangsa hanging painting features a central depiction of the Mireuksan Buddha, beautifully adorned and wearing an elaborate crown, set against a 14-meter hemp background. The Cultural Heritage Administration praised it as a pioneering example of this form, highlighting its balanced posture, proportion, and the striking contrast of red and green that conveys a sense of grandeur and majesty.
The painting's creation date of 1627 (the 5th year of King Injo's reign) is confirmed through its inscription, which also identifies the artists involved, including Beopgyeong, Hyeyun, Inhak, and Heesang. This date predates that of other previously designated national treasures. Furthermore, the inscription reveals the title 'Mireuk,' indicating that this hanging painting was created within the context of the Mireuksan faith, which was popular in the Chungcheong region at the time.
In addition, the 'Dongguk Isanguk Jeonji Volumes 18-22, 31-41,' a collection of writings by the mid-Goryeo scholar and official Lee Gyubo (1168-1241), has also been proposed for designation as a treasure. This document holds significant bibliographic value as it represents a personal collection from a Confucian scholar during a period primarily known for the compilation of Buddhist texts. Although only 16 volumes out of the original 41 remain, this collection is recognized as the oldest existing version and the most numerous among domestic holdings.
