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Wat Traimit Witthayaram Golden Buddha Hall: Golden Buddha
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Wat Traimit Witthayaram Golden Buddha Hall: Golden Buddha
THAILAND, Bangkok; 13th century; Gold; H: 304 cm
This 5.5 t statue is the largest golden seated Buddha statue in the world was included in the Guinness World Records in 1991. There are instructions on dismantling at the bottom of the statue, which would separate it into nine pieces. Originally, it was covered in a layer of stucco and relocated to the present temple in 1935. It was not until 1955 that a new shrine was built for it. During the process of moving, the statue was accidentally dropped and a section of the chest fell off, revealing the real statue underneath. The Buddha shows characteristics of the Sukhothai Kingdom (circa 1238–1438) and bears striking similarities to the golden Buddha mentioned in records during the reign of King Ram Khamhaeng (reigned circa 1279–1298). It is therefore believed that this statue may be the same one.
The flame ornament on the Buddha 's usnisa is characteristic of the Sukhothai style. Other features include elongated earlobes and broad shoulders. The figure wears a smooth monastic robe that leaves the right shoulder bare, while a corner is neatly folded over the left shoulder. The figure sits in half lotus position upon a low throne, the plainness of which is another trait of the period. The left hand is in bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra. |
