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Stupa Thailand, Kingdom of Ayudhia 16th/17th century Bronze, cast in the lost wax method, in two parts, traces of gilding height 154 cm |
The term ‘stupa’ is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning ‘to accumulate or gather together’. Relics or sacred items were contained in it, and religious followers assembled at it for ritual purposes. The numerous stupas spread all over Asia are thus symbols of enlightenment. They are important spiritual monuments, for they represent the Buddha’s body, speeches and mind. The visual impact of the stupa on the observer incites a direct experience of inherent wakefulness and dignity. They all contain a life tree and holy relics, as they are memorial sanctuaries of the historical Buddha. The lowest section holds the earth symbolizes the ten virtues of body, speech and mind. The three steps above symbolize the Buddha, his teachings and those who practice the teachings. The four corners of the throne symbolize the limitess virtues of love, compassion, joy and equanimity. The thirteen circular rings of decreasing size are connected with the phases of Buddha’s life, representing the Buddha and his path to enlightenment. They are connected with the ten powers and the three essential remembrances. The jewel at the top symbolizes the fulfilment of all wishes. The present stupa is constructed in a style typical of classical Thai Buddhist architecture. Around 1491 King Rama Thibodi II built two such stupas in the compound of the famous Ayudhia temple of Wat Phra Si Sanphet. One was dedicated as the recipient of his father ashes; the other received those of his elder brother. A third stupa was built during the reign of King Borom Rachathirat IV (ruled 1529-1533) to house a relic of the earlier king. In 1767 these three magnificent chedis were destroyed by the invading Burmese. The present stupa also shows similarities with a number of smaller examples which commemorate not only the historical Buddha but also the famous stupas of the Ayudhia kingdom. The consistent casting and purity of shape are typical of the period. These stupas also inspired the golden chedi or the Phra Sri Rattana, built by King Mongkut (ruled 1851-1868). The Wat Phra Kheo or ‘Temple of the Emerald Buddha’ became one of the most dazzling sights in Southeast Asia [1]. This monumental bronze stupa is of a beautiful shape. All features are well cast with pure volumes and lines, and perfect proportions. Created as a spiritual monument, the piece was originally placed inside a Buddhist sanctuary, intended for use in religious practices. [1] E.Moore and P. Stoot, Ancient Capitals of Thailand, Thames & Hudson, London, 1996, p.250-251 and front cover.:the three chedis of Wat Phra Si Sanphet. http://www.learnnc.org/lp/multimedia/2436: Golden Stupa Spires and Tiered Roofs at Emerald Buddha Temple in Bangkok. |