The Choson or Joseon dynasty, which lasted 500 years from 1392 to 1910, was the last Korean dynasty. The first two hundred years of the dynasty witnessed the revival of classical traditions alongside significant achievements in innovative art forms under King Sejong (r. 1418–50), who was the embodiment of a renaissance monarch. The new political vision of the state promoted Neo-Confucianism in virtually every aspect of society. Secular art and culture were encouraged while Buddhism, the state-sanctioned religion for more than a thousand years) was officially rejected, though private worship and artistic production continued.

This fine bronze figure of the Buddha exemplifies the superb skills of Joseon craftsmen. Dated to the 18th century, the 50 cm tall figure depicts the Buddha seated in the lotus position, his right hand over his knee touching the ground and his left hand upturned with his middle finger elegantly raised. This position, known as the bhumisparsh mudra, is associated with the historical Buddha Shakyamuni and represents the moment when he calls the earth to witness just prior to his enlightenment.