기록을 통해 본 조선후기 骨窟石窟의 양상

Abstract

Gyeongju Gol-gul cave is a rock- cut cave temple which is closer to the original form of a cave temple than Seoguram which is constructed by the stones. The shape of the gol-gul cave built on the cliff seems to have undergone many changes since its inception. In this article, I examined the aspects depicted in the records of the late Joseon Dynasty in order to deduce the original form of Gol-gul cave. In other words, the aspects of Gol-gul cave in the late Joseon Dynasty mentioned in Yousangi (遊山記) which were produced by Sajok(noble man) after the sightseeing of the scenic spots, described in the maps and paintings in the late Joseon Dynasty, and stated in the Silla Hamwolsan Girimsa Sajuk(新羅含月山祇林寺事蹟)are summarized as follows. First, naturally occurring caves in the rocky mountains were artificially rubbed and flattened to the size for one or two people to barely enter. Second, there were twelve caves that people could sit in. Third, of the 12 caves, there were 6 caves with eaves, walls, and windows. Fourth, at least two of caves were decorated with rock-carved Buddha(磨崖佛), which are offered incense and candle. Fifth, each cave has its own purpose and the tablet corresponding to it was attached. The shape of Gol-gul cave in the late Joseon Dynasty, which cut and dug rocks and had a wooden structure on three sides, was quite different from the present one. No eaves, walls, or windows that were present at the front of the cave remain. The possibility that not only characteristic of wood which is easy to fall down but also the material properties of the tuff rocks, which are porous and easy to process, have played a role in forming the current shape also should be considered in speculating the original form of Gol-gul cave.