A journey of special experiences, 'Room of Quiet Contemplation'
Time to think about everything and think deeply.
The National Museum of Korea (NMK) decided to foster two pieces, the National Treasures 78 and 83, as the museum's representative brand, akin to the Louvre Museum's 'Mona Lisa.' They allocated a budget to establish a dedicated exhibition space called the 'Room of Quiet Contemplation' to facilitate this. This space was officially opened on the museum's second floor in November 2021. The National Treasures 78 and 83 of the pensive bodhisattva statue, significant relics at the national treasure level, were previously exhibited alternately every three months, considering their preservation and rest. The simultaneous exhibition of these two pieces in the same space represents a unique attempt and holds considerable significance.
Golden Bronze pensive bodhisattva statue, late 6th century of the Three Kingdoms period (left)
Golden Bronze pensive bodhisattva statue, early 7th century of the Three Kingdoms period (right)
The 'Room of Quiet Contemplation' has become a must-visit essential for not only domestic visitors but also foreigners visiting Korea, drawing tremendous popularity. While these two pensive bodhisattva statues have been displayed in the museum for some time, the considerable attention it's receiving might stem from the exhibition's planning and meticulously designed space. Upon entering the 'Room of Quiet Contemplation' with its unique size (440㎡) and its distinctively dark and cozy ambiance, visitors are drawn to focus on the two pensive bodhisattva pieces in this spacious setting, almost as if encountering them in a dimly lit and snug room.
Architect Choi Wook (One O One Architects) was responsible for the 'Room of Quiet Contemplation.' He secured an area twice the initial plan by conceptualizing a 'space that respects the five senses' after discussions with the museum. The reason behind his insistence on a spacious area was to create an alleyway with darkness during the entry and exit from the exhibition hall, dividing the space and intending for a dramatic expansion at the end of this alley.
[Meaning of The Pensive Bodhisattva Statue]
The posture taken by 'The Pensive Bodhisattva Statue' depicts a figure deeply lost in thought, and the name is derived from this posture. In essence, 'The Pensive Bodhisattva Statue' refers to a statue that slightly touches the cheek with one hand, depicting a figure lost in deep thought.
Since childhood, Siddhartha Gautama (Sakyamuni) pondered deeply about life's suffering and meaning, continuing profound contemplation on the path of practice. 'The Pensive Bodhisattva Statue' represents Siddhartha, showcasing his deep contemplation and momentarily delaying enlightenment, resembling the figure of a practitioner or a Bodhisattva.
The 'The Pensive Bodhisattva Statue' posture embodies a crucial movement in the process leading to enlightenment. It's challenging to discern whether the figure is lowering one leg from the ‘Gyeolgabuja’ or lifting the leg to enter a contemplative state. This posture signifies moments where the journey toward enlightenment intertwines or diverges with worldly afflictions. The subtle smile at the corner of the lips symbolizes the instant of enlightenment reached after profound contemplation, encapsulating our thoughts and concerns.
[BTS and 'The Pensive Bodhisattva Statue']
It is said that since BTS RM uploaded the 'The Pensive Bodhisattva Statue' on his Instagram, fans from all over the world have been visiting and purchasing miniatures. I can't help but be surprised by BTS's influence.
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