The Wooden Seated Child Manjusri of Sangwonsa Temple

During Joseon Dynasty, the Kings respect Buddhist temples, and had actively promoted Confucianism.

The Wooden Seated Child Manjusri here recorded as National Treasure, is a 15th-century wooden carving. This rare child statue contained the prayer for a son of the royal family. Princess Uisook, the daughter of King Sejo, made this wish.

As you can see, the statue is in a comfortable pose, with its left leg turned inward and its right leg outward. The statue's adorable hair is tied into small buns on the top of its head, both on the right and the left. Its innocent face, gently flowing garments, soft and delicate necklaces and fingers hanging over the chest, and embellished ornaments demonstrate the sophisticated wooden-carving skills of sculptors from the early Joseon Dynasty period.

Among the reliquaries from the Wooden Seated Child Manjusri, a silk, unlined summer jacket that King Sejo wore when he was sick was found, confirming the legend. Child Manjusri, a symbol of an object of faith, was enshrined in the hall. The statue has come to signify forgiveness and compassion given its history.

Come to Sangwonsa Temple and take a look at this masterpiece, maybe you will find your long-lost inner peace.