Returned to its original place after 100 years… Enshrined in the Seongbo Museum of Magoksa Temple
Representative Buddhist painter Yakho’s early artistic style in a rare Buddhist painting
A collaboration between the Jogye Order, Magoksa, and the foundation led to the retrieval,
Yakhe’s ‘Shinjungdo’, a work by the renowned Korean Buddhist painter, has finally returned to its homeland after spending a long time overseas. The painting, which had appeared in a German auction after being exported, was brought back to Korea last month through the efforts of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and Magoksa Temple and has been enshrined in the Seongbo Museum of Magoksa.
This retrieval process started in June with auction monitoring data provided by the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation. Although part of the painting’s production year and the temple’s name had been damaged, it was confirmed to be a Bosalsa Buddhist painting without much difficulty. Magoksa immediately expressed its intention to retrieve the work, coordinated with the Jogye Order, and participated in the auction to successfully acquire the painting. Following customs clearance and transportation, the painting returned to Korean soil on August 21.
The top section of the Shinjungdo depicts Indra and Brahma, with Weituo, wearing a feathered helmet, in the center. Celestial beings and deities are arranged toward Indra and Brahma, while a group of armed divine warriors is portrayed below Weituo, presenting a striking visual. The vibrant use of reds contrasted with blues and greens creates a powerful image.
This Shinjungdo, created in 1886, is the work of Yakho (Geumho Yakho, ?~1928), a monk recognized as a master of modern Buddhist paintings. As a piece from the period when Yakho began his full-fledged career, it offers valuable insight into his early artistic style. Yakho left more than 100 Buddhist paintings, starting with the ‘Sakyamuni Preaching’ at Bongnyeongsa in 1879, and produced numerous works while residing at Magoksa Temple. Currently, 17 of his paintings remain at Magoksa, where an annual memorial ceremony is held in his honor.
Monk Wonkyung of Magoksa expressed gratitude for the return of the cultural piece deeply connected to Magoksa, stating, “I am grateful for the return of this significant cultural piece related to Magoksa” and promised, “We will actively engage in returning other temple properties to their rightful places.” Monk Seongwon, head of the Cultural Department, also expressed appreciation to the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation for providing the auction information and vowed to closely collaborate with related organizations and temples to ensure the restitution of such treasures.