This study is intended to consider the origin and the characteristics of Korean traditional sacerdotal robe from the viewpoint of art history.
To that end, the origin and the components of the Indian sacerdotal robe was first reviewed and summarized...
This study is intended to consider the origin and the characteristics of Korean traditional sacerdotal robe from the viewpoint of art history.
To that end, the origin and the components of the Indian sacerdotal robe was first reviewed and summarized. Sacerdotal robe was originated from the dressing for practicing asceticism in India which was then accommodated by Buddhism, and the preconditional understanding of such origin will help better understand the sacerdotal robe. The transition of Indian sacerdotal robe and the changes in China were also evaluated. Sacerdotal robe was used as ordinary dressing for practicing asceticism in India which was then changed to ceremonial dress which was limited in use after the Buddhism spread all over the Chinese culture. Sacerdotal robe is no longer a simple clothes but now serves the sacred religious dress symbolizing the Buddha.
Approaching to sacerdotal robe will play the bridge role in linking the Korean traditional sacerdotal robe to that of Indian Buddhism as well as will bring us the clear recognition of the original, changes and the implicit spirit and symbolism.
Based on above, review of sacerdotal robe represented in documents and paintings and the actual sacerdotal robe was summarized hereon. Because of lack or insufficient data on sacerdotal robe available to date, the study had to heavily rely on data contained in documents or painting. Then classification by time and individual analysis were followed before proceeding with the symbolism analysis of the such major characteristics as Cheon Wangmoon, Il Wol Gwangmoon, Beomjamoon, Sumisan
moon and Yeonhwamoon. The characteristics differentiated from Chinese sacerdotal robe are the factors representing the features and importance of Korean traditional sacerdotal robe, which was, in other word, further developed independently while accommodating the foreign elements, attempting to reestablish its own character. It also has more symbolism and own philosophy compared to sacerdotal robes in other countries.
Korean traditional sacerdotal robe is our own and unique cultural asset we are very proud of. The clothes tend to change continuously as time goes by and Korea’s Buddhist sacerdotal robe has still been in process now. The changes will have its appropriateness and validity when they are based on own tradition, Thus right understanding, succession and development for clarifying the value will have the historical meaning as well as is worth the value of the study beyond the viewpoint of the art history.