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The Gilt-Bronze Incense Burner of Baekje
- Admin
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Korea Unesco World heritage - Buyeo
In 1993, at the ruins of an ancient temple in Neungsan-ri, Buyeo, Unesco World heritage site, a breathtaking discovery was made.Hidden beneath layers of soil for more than 1,500 years, a brilliant golden artifact finally saw the light of day — the Gilt-Bronze Incense Burner of Baekje
When it was unearthed, the moment was almost sacred. The burner was found in near-perfect condition, its golden surface still gleaming faintly,as if it had been waiting all those centuries to tell the story of Baekje’s refined artistry and spiritual depth.
The incense burner was discovered at the temple site near the royal tombs of the Baekje Kingdom,in what is now Buyeo, South Chungcheong Province. During an excavation by the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage, archaeologists uncovered the burner buried near the main hall of the temple.
Remarkably, it was found almost completely intact, with delicate carvings and gilded details still visible after over a millennium. The discovery instantly became one of the most significant archaeological finds in Korean history, revealing the technical mastery and artistic elegance of the Baekje Kingdom.
A Harmony of Three Parts
Standing about 62 centimeters tall and weighing nearly 12 kilograms, the incense burner is composed of three main parts — the base, the body, and the lid.
The Base features a dragon holding a sacred pearl in its mouth, its body coiled gracefully as if soaring toward the heavens. This dynamic form symbolizes strength and life energy,showing the Baekje artisans’ remarkable ability to capture movement in metal.
The Body is shaped like a lotus blossom,representing purity and enlightenment in Buddhism. The incense would rise from the lotus, symbolizing the fragrance of enlightenment spreading through the world.
The Lid takes the form of a mountain with five peaks, populated with more than 60 tiny figures of animals, birds, and immortals. At the very top stands a majestic phoenix, with small holes in its beak allowing the incense smoke to flow out — as if the divine bird itself were releasing the scent of heaven.
Artistic Value and Symbolism
The Gilt-Bronze Incense Burner of Baekje is far more than a religious object. It is a masterpiece that embodies the spirit of Baekje culture — a world of balance, grace, and spiritual imagination.
Exquisite Metal Craftsmanship
The combination of bronze casting and gilding shows an astonishing level of technical skill, demonstrating the height of Baekje metal artistry.
Harmony of Buddhism and Taoism
The mountain peaks filled with immortals reflect Taoist ideals, while the lotus and phoenix represent Buddhist purity and rebirth. This fusion illustrates Baekje’s open- minded and inclusive culture.
Balance and Grace
Despite its complexity, the entire piece maintains perfect balance and proportion. The soft curves, detailed carvings, and serene composition are hallmarks of Baekje aesthetics.
The Beauty of Baekje Art
Baekje art is often described as elegant, gentle, and harmonious. While Goguryeo art emphasizes strength and Silla art is known for its grandeur, Baekje’s beauty lies in its refined simplicity and graceful balance.
The incense burner embodies these qualities perfectly —it is elaborate but not excessive, intricate but never chaotic. It reflects a world where nature, humanity, and spirituality exist in perfect harmony.
Today, the Gilt-Bronze Incense Burner of Baekje is designated as National Treasure No. 287 and is displayed at the Buyeo National Museum, Korea Unesco World heritage - Buyeo. It is often regarded as one of the greatest masterpieces of ancient East Asian metal art.
The site where it was discovered — the Neungsan-ri Temple Complex —is now part of the Baekje Historic Areas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Fragrance That Transcends Time
The Baekje incense burner is not just an ancient relic. It is a message from the past — a symbol of spiritual beauty and artistic excellence. Within its golden form lives the soul of a civilization that cherished harmony, peace, and elegance.
Even after 1,500 years, the fragrance of Baekje still lingers — soft, serene, and timeless.
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