Investigation of Printed Copies of the Duplicate Woodblocks of the Tripitaka Koreana 2nd Edition in Haeinsa Temple and Analysis of Period of Manufacture.

A new analysis of the Tripitaka Koreana's duplicate woodblocks, housed at Haeinsa Temple and inscribed on UNESCO's Memory of the World Register, reveals that these blocks—numbering 211 in total—were likely produced in the mid-15th century. This finding refines previous historical estimates by examining 20 printed copies, distinguishing between unlined and lined woodblocks and analyzing Chinese character styles attributed to Jo Maengbu. The study suggests a possible connection to King Sejo of the Joseon Dynasty, though this remains speculative. By comparing printed copies from different periods, researchers aim to clarify the timeline of these significant cultural artifacts. Further examination of additional copies could provide deeper insights into their manufacturing history.

Park, G. (2020). Investigation of Printed Copies of the Duplicate Woodblocks of the Tripitaka Koreana 2nd Edition in Haeinsa Temple and Analysis of Period of Manufacture. Misulsa Yeongu : Journal of Art History, 38, 33–67. https://doi.org/10.52799/jah.2020.06.38.33