The Essence of Joseon Buddhist Painting: 'Jikjisa Sakyamuni Buddha Triad' Unveiled for the First Time After National Treasure Designation

Ceremony Celebrates National Treasure Designation
and Completion of 'Bojanggak' Facility

The 'Jikjisa Sakyamuni Buddha Triad Painting in Gimcheon,' which was designated as a National Treasure last year, will be unveiled for the first time after undergoing preservation treatment.

The Cultural Heritage Administration and Jikjisa Temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism will hold a ceremony on the afternoon of September 17 to commemorate the designation of the Sakyamuni Buddha Triad Painting as a National Treasure and the completion of 'Bojanggak,' a new cultural heritage storage facility.

Created in the 20th year of King Yeongjo's reign (1744) and enshrined in the Daeungjeon Hall of Jikjisa Temple, the Sakyamuni Buddha Triad Painting exemplifies the pinnacle of late Joseon Buddhist art. Among all extant triad paintings, it is the oldest and largest in scale. All three panels-the central Vulture Peak Assembly, the left Bhaisajyaguru Preaching Scene, and the right Amitabha Preaching Scene-have been preserved in their entirety. The grand composition features dozens of figures depicted with delicate and elegant brushwork, creating a sense of solemnity.

According to the inscription, not only the Buddhist monk-painters of Jikjisa Temple but also those from neighboring temples participated in its creation. For this reason, it is regarded as a valuable resource for the study of Buddhist art. The Sanskrit mantras engraved along the edges of the painting further enhance its significance.

The newly completed Bojanggak serves as a hub for the preservation, management, and research of Jikjisa Temple's sacred cultural heritage, including the Sakyamuni Buddha Triad Painting.

The ceremony will be attended by Heo Min, Commissioner of the Cultural Heritage Administration; Venerable Beobseong, the spiritual leader of Jikjisa Temple; Venerable Jangmyeong, the chief monk; and Bae Nakho, Mayor of Gimcheon. The event will proceed with the presentation of the National Treasure designation certificate, followed by the unveiling of the Bojanggak nameplate.