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Wat Phanan Choeng Main Hall: Phra Chao Phananchoeng
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Wat Phanan Choeng Main Hall: Phra Chao Phananchoeng
THAILAND, Ayutthaya; Dated 1324; Plaster with varnish and gilding; H: 19.2 m
Revered by both commoners and royalty, the statue was created 26 years before the foundation of the Ayutthaya Kingdom (circa 1350–1767) and is one of the largest in Thailand. During the time of King Rama IV (reigned 1851–1868), the king ordered its repair and restoration, and also had it gilded.
The Buddha bears characteristics from the Sukhothai Kingdom (circa 1238–1438), with dense, tightly packed curls and a high flame ornament on the head. The figure has broad shoulders and a muscular chest and is seated in half lotus position on a lotus throne while making the bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra with the right hand. The fingers of both hands are of equal length, another regional trait.
The distance between the statue and the surrounding pillars is so close that it is thought the building was erected after the statue was first created. |
