The Buddhist Triad at
Kyongju's Paeri is also known as the "Zen Valley Stone Triad."
All three figures are standing. The Sakyamuni Buddha is relatively
large at 2.7 meters in height. Its face is full and its eyebrows
are large and distinct. The eyes seem to be smiling. In fact, all
three Buddhas seem to be smiling like children. This reflects
the character of the Shilla people in the early 7thcentury
when these sculptures were made. The Buddhas relatively large heads
also give them a childlike appearance. The Main Buddha's feet
are rectangular and give a feeling of stability. The palm
of the right hand is raised; the left is turned outward and down
in generosity and promise. The Buddha seems especially friendly,
more like a neighborhood grandfather than a teacher. Originally
a stone seat stood in front of the Main Buddha. It was destroyed
and has been replaced by another stone. The Main Buddha's
halo is relatively small, making the head seem all the larger.
The somewhat heavy folds of the Buddha's robes are the statue's
greatest flaw.
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