The Stele for Buddhist Preceptor Wollang. A stele (or stela) is an upright stone slab or column typically bearing a commemorative inscription or relief design, often serving as a gravestone. This stele records the life of the Buddhist preceptor Wollang (816–883) in the late Silla period focusing on his asceticism (or severe self-discipline and avoidance of all forms of indulgence).