This stone monkey was originally part of a set of animal figures representing the oriental zodiac, which were placed around the tomb of King Seongdeok (33rd Silla King, r. 702-737). The oriental zodiac, which originated in Tang China during the Unified Silla period, includes twelve animals that act as the guardians of time and the four cardinal directions. Initially, small zodiac figurines were placed inside tombs with the deceased, but they eventually took on the role of divine guardians, and were then usually placed outside the burials. In the later stages of the Silla Period, zodiac figures and images were carved into the protective stones that encircled the base of the burial mounds. The tomb of King Seongdeok was constructed near the end of the middle stage, so the figures of the twelve zodiac animals were placed in front of the protective stones. This three-dimensional zodiac figure is depicted in a highly realistic manner, including its dangling sleeves and detailed armor. The monkey holds its sword in its right hand, with its left hand confidently hooked in its belt, vigilantly guarding the dignity of the king and his tomb.