Baekje Clay Pedestal from a Kiln Site in Ch’ŏngyang: When, why and how it was made

Abstract

Although the Clay Pedestal found at Ponŭi-ri is a remarkable item as it is large in size and has an accurate provenience, it has been mostly neglected academically. I have re-examined the pedestal to question when and why it was made, and have come to a conclusion that differ significantly from those of previous studies. Firstly, the pedestal covered with Buddha’s skirt was previously known to have its origins only in the sculptures of the Southern Dynasties, but it is more reasonable to understand it as a style newly developed by combining the traditions of Baekje and the Southern Dynasties, and the novel methods of 7th century Sui and early Tang. Secondly, it is likely that the pedestal was made by stacking same-sized clay tablets, not by using cords of clay. The use of this technique suggests that during the Sabi period in Baekje, roof tiles and pottery were made in the same workshops. It is also probable that the clay figures made in Baekje influenced large clay statues of Silla, for example, the late 7th century statue found near Nŭngji pagoda. Thirdly, I have found that the pedestal was originally a part of a seated Buddha statue with a halo that was made separately and put together. Judging by the width of the pedestal, the completed statue was possibly a changyuksang, meaning that it measured around 230 cm in height. Moreover, comparisons between the pedestal to other clay statues of Baekje, reveal that the statue was likely made to be enshrined inside the Geumdang Hall at Kŭmgangsa site in Buyŏ.