Detail

`The Ministry of Communications is issuing a new 500­won definitive postage stamp with a Tile with Monster Mask in Relief, made during the Baikje Dynasty, as its design to replace the existing definitive postage stamp of the same denomination, which bears as its design the Golden Crown of the Silla Dynasty excavated from Chonma­Chong Mound. Tile with Monster Mask in Relief Excavated from Buyo Country, Chunchong­namdo Province, this square tile is 28.55cm in height, 28.25cm in width and is 4.5cm thick. One of Treasure No.343, the tile, which is presumed to have been moulded during the Baikje Dynasty (circa 6­7th century), is preserved at the National Museum of Buyo. On this tile is inscribed in relief a monstrous figure standing on a rocky mountain as if to overawe nearby mountains. The figure is so depicted as to look larger than the rocky mountain on which it stands. The mouth, eyes and nose of the monster remind us of a roaring beast. Its shoulders are supported by two stout arms, and the beard and hairs seen from behind the shoulders suggest an immeasurable strength of monstrous nature. A metallic belt is worn around the waist. Although the lower part of the figu seems to be rather out of protection as comared with the upper half, the sharp finger-nails and claws are more than enough to overpower others around it. Indeed, we can appreciate the highly exquisite skiils and a refined artistic sense of the Baikje Dynasty from this Tile with Monster Mask in Relief.`