송림사 명부전 불상과 조각승 勝一 연구

Abstract

In the Myungbujeon of Songnimsa temple, Samjangbosal is enshrined with The Ten Kings of Hell instead of Ksitigarbha which was more common. It is also unique that Samjangbosal which is main enshrinement is made of stone while the rest statues in the hall are made of wood and clay. While Samjangbosal was very popular subject matter of the Buddhist painting in 16th century, this is the only remaining sculpture of Samjangbosal throughout the Chosun Dynasty. The design and carving of Buddhist statues in Myungbujeon was done by monk sculptor Seungil, based on the “Ojongbeomeumjip: Collection of Five Orations” which contains all the related rituals with Myungbu such as Suryukjae and Yesujae. Sculptor Seungil who had started his religious training as royal monk in 1620s is presumed to have had very flexible and receptive attitude. He was disciple of monk sculptor Hyunjin who played critical role in resurrection of Buddhist community including royal family out of aftermath of Japanese invasion in early 17 century. He had finished creative and monumental masterpiece Myungbujeon Buddhist sculptures with his excellent sense of formality learnt from renowned monk sculptors Cheonghyun and Mooyeom. In summary, Buddhist statues in Myungbujeon at Songnimsa temple is not only an important example of resurrection of Buddhist community in late Chosun Dynasty, but artistic masterpiece of monk sculptor Seungil who had led the Buddist sculptures in late 17 century with his outstanding artistic competence.