봉선사 동종 국보 지정과 조선 종 문화

개요

이 종의 내력

한국 범종이 특별한 이유

• 음관(음통): 종 위에 세워진 대롱, 소리 좋게 하는 장치. 한국 범종에만 있음.
• 용뉴: 종 매다는 용 모양 고리
• 당좌: 종 치는 부분 디자인
고려 범종은 화려한 장식이 특징이고, 조선 범종은 유교적 절제미와 왕실의 장중함이 특징임.

유명한 한국 범종들

• 성덕대왕신종(에밀레종): 신라 시대, 경주. 세계에서 가장 아름다운 종소리 중 하나.
• 상원사 동종: 강원도 평창.
• 봉선사 동종: 이번에 국보 된 거.

종소리의 의미

국보 지정 왜 중요해

관련 항목

억불 정책 속 왕실 불교

일제강점기 때 많이 사라짐

왜 조선 범종 연구가 중요하냐

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National Treasure Designation of Bongsunsa Bell: A Window into Joseon Dynasty Buddhist Culture

Overview

In 2024, the bronze bell (dongjong) at Bongsunsa Temple in Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province, was designated as a National Treasure of Korea. Cast in 1469 (Year 1 of King Yejong), during the reign of King Sejo, this monumental bell stands as a testament to royal patronage commissioned by Queen Jeonghyeon (윤씨, Queen consort of King Sejo) for the repose of his soul. Measuring approximately 230 centimeters in height and weighing around 4,000 kilograms, it exemplifies the pinnacle of bell-casting techniques from the early Joseon period. Its designation transcends mere recognition as an artifact, shedding light on the profound historical significance of Buddhist bell culture during this era.

History of Bongsunsa Bell

Located near Gwangneung Tomb (King Sejo's resting place), Bongsunsa Temple served as a royal temple dedicated to the well-being of the monarchy. This bell, crafted in 1469, has resided at Bongsunsa for over five centuries, surviving even the devastation wrought by the Korean War when the temple was destroyed. Notably, the bell itself endured, bearing witness to centuries of history. Inscriptions on its surface detail its creation and feature Buddhist Sanskrit characters (범자), enriching its value as a historical document.

Distinctive Features of Joseon Buddhist Bells

Korean Buddhist bells possess a unique aesthetic distinct from those of China and Japan. A defining characteristic is the Yongtong (음관), a large tubular bell chamber positioned atop the bell, enhancing its resonant qualities. This distinctive structural element is exclusive to Korean bells. Additionally, designs of other components like the **Yongnyu (용뉴, dragon finial), Cheonpan (천판, bell crown), and Dangja (당좌, striking surface) evolved over time, reflecting stylistic shifts across different eras.

While Goryeo bells are renowned for their elaborate ornamentation and depictions of flying heavenly beings (비천상), Joseon bells embody a restrained elegance influenced by Confucianism, coupled with grandeur befitting royal patronage. Notable examples include the Seongdeok Daejong (성덕대왕신종, Emile Bell) in Gyeongju, Yeongboksa Bell at the National Museum of Korea, and Sangwonsa Bell in Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province.

Bell Casting Techniques

Traditional Korean bells are meticulously crafted from bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, with casting techniques as the paramount concern. During the Joseon dynasty, specialized artisans known as Jusongjang (주종장) oversaw bell production. It is believed that the Bongsunsa Bell may have been created under the auspices of a royal workshop (국가 공방). These ancient casting methods are now protected as Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Korean government, carried forward by a select few master craftsmen.

Cultural Significance of Bell Sounds

Beyond their role as timekeepers, the resonant tones of Buddhist bells hold profound spiritual significance within Buddhist rituals and practices. The reverberating sound preceding dawn prayers symbolizes the dissemination of Buddhist teachings to all sentient beings. The majestic chimes of the Seongdeok Daejong, famously known as Emile Bell, have been acclaimed as among the world's most beautiful, attracting scientific scrutiny as well. Notably, the lingering resonance (여운) characteristic of renowned bells signifies their exceptional quality.

Significance of National Treasure Designation and Cultural Preservation

The Cultural Heritage Administration highlighted the Bongsunsa Bell's exceptional merit as a National Treasure, citing its size, remarkable preservation state, and unparalleled historical, artistic, and scholarly value as key factors. This designation is anticipated to bolster funding for conservation and research initiatives surrounding the bell, enhancing its potential as a significant tourist attraction.

Related Topics

• Seongdeok Daejong (Emile Bell)
• Sangwonsa Bell
• National Treasures and Treasures
• Buddhist Cultural Heritage
• Bongsunsa Temple
• Gwangneung Tomb (Sejo's Tomb)
• Intangible Cultural Heritage
• Joseon Dynasty Buddhism
• Bell Casting Techniques
• Cultural Heritage Administration

Joseon Dynasty Buddhism and the Royal Court

Despite Buddhism being suppressed under Confucian principles during the Joseon dynasty, royal rituals continued to incorporate Buddhist elements. Although strict suppression policies were enforced during the reigns of Kings Taejong and Sejong, Buddhist patronage persisted, particularly among royal women. King Sejo, known for his active support of Buddhism, reportedly turned to the faith as a means of atonement for actions leading to his ascension to the throne (Gyeongsin Rebellion and the deposition of King Danjong). Following Sejo's death, Queen Jeonghyeon continued his patronage of Buddhism.

Cultural Loss During Japanese Colonial Rule

Numerous bells across the Korean peninsula vanished during Japan's colonial era due to forced metal confiscation. In 1942, the Japanese colonial government justified the seizure of metal resources, including temple bells, under wartime exigencies. While the precise number of lost bells remains uncertain, it is estimated that most bells from temples nationwide disappeared during this period. The survival of the Bongsunsa Bell through this tumultuous era can be attributed to historical fortune.

Modern Relevance

The designation of the Bongsunsa Bell as a National Treasure marks a significant milestone in the study of Joseon Dynasty Buddhist cultural heritage. It signals a renewed appreciation for objects previously overshadowed by earlier periods like the Silla and Goryeo dynasties. Research on this bell promises to unveil multifaceted historical insights, encompassing bronze casting techniques of the early Joseon era, royal sponsorship rituals, and the intricate relationship between temples and the royal court.

English version not yet available.

English version not yet available.