Rock-carved Triad Buddha Statue at Gaseopamji, Geochang

This is a rock-carved triad Buddha statue engraved in a large rock cave in the northern valley of Geumwonsan Mountain. Climbing the stone steps behind reveals a rock cave, and inside, facing south, the triad Buddha is carved on the rock. The parts of the triad are divided by triangular lines, and the center is shaped like a jewel to engrave the three Buddhas. The central Buddha is flanked by two bodhisattvas. The center appears to be Amitabha Buddha, the right is Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, and the left is Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. The main Buddha on the lotus Sumeru pedestal has a broad face, with small eyes, nose, and mouth relative to the face, and large but plain ears, giving a folk-like impression. The faces of the left and right bodhisattvas are similar, but their ornate robes feel somewhat cluttered. All three Buddhas are carved in relief, but overall they are expressed flatly. The main Buddha's angular shoulders, plain chest, unnaturally gathered arms on the chest, stick-like legs, and spread insteps are characteristics of Goryeo Dynasty Buddha statues. An inscription on the right indicates it was made in 1111, and the site of Gaseopam Hermitage below the rock cave is said to have had a temple until 1770, with a few stone materials remaining from that time. The three-story stone pagoda moved to Wicheon Elementary School is presumed to be a Goryeo Dynasty pagoda like the rock-carved triad Buddha, and the rock-carved triad Buddha is thought to have been part of a temple that existed during the Goryeo Dynasty along with the hermitage at Gaseopam.