• Journal of the Korean Institute of Traditional Landscape Architecture
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• v.36 no.3
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• pp.160-171
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• 2018

This study aims to find an original form of temple flower decoration patterns, considering floral lattice pattern as a view element composing temple landscape. To that end, we analyzed and interpreted the form and symbol expressed in the floral lattice pattern at Nahanjeon of Seonghyel Temple at Yeongju, Gyeongsangbukdo. The front side of Nahanjeon windows shows a sculpture with 176 pure patterns in a form where two squares are in sequence. The basic concept of main front door (the inner gate of Nahanjeon) frames is considered the design language of lotus pond that symbolizes "square land" in traditional gardens. The four leaf clover and arrowhead are water plants discovered in areas nearby ponds, which are a realistic expression conforming to the water ecology of lotus pond. The lotus, which is the most important plant at the main front door, indicates purity, a non-stained state, and the world of the lotus sanctuary, which is the land of blissful happiness in Buddhism. The lotus expressed in the floral lattice pattern is spread in a diverse form, containing the features of creation and destruction, showing the landscape character of the "One Body of Buddha and Lotus". The expression of flying birds such as kingfishers and egrets is an ecologically aesthetic idea to infuse dynamism and vitality into a seemingly static aquatic ecosystem. The floral lattice pattern contains lotus pond scenery showing symbiosis of animals(i.e., dragons, frogs, crabs, fishes, egrets, wild geese, and kingfishers) and plants(i.e., four leaf clovers and arrowheads), which are symbols of relief faith for longevity, wealth, preciousness, and many sons. The pattern is not just an ecological aesthetic expression but a holistic harmony of ecological components such as growth and disappearance of lotus and its leaves, fitting habitats, symbiosis, and food chain.