Phra Pong Suphan, old face type, made of red clay and coated with herbal lacquer, from Wat Phra Si Rattanamahathat, Suphan Buri Province

This Phra Pong Suphan has been coated with herbal lacquer, which seeps into the clay of the statue to preserve the material of the figure buried in the underground temple. The calcium in the water and air combines with the burial clay, adhering firmly to both the front and back of the figure. The monk who consecrated the statue performed the blessing ritual twice.

This particular Phra Pong Suphan features triangular wings closely cut to the figure, with the pointed ends trimmed down at two corners, transforming it into a pentagonal wing shape. The Buddhist art is exceptionally complete and untouched, with only the upper surface showing the clay, which has absorbed the herbal lacquer, enhancing the beauty and sacredness of the statue.

The mold characteristics are flawless, beginning with the naturally shaped facial frame. The left eyebrow is raised high, connecting to the bridge of the nose, with the tip of the nose merging into a double-layered lip. The eyes are large and prominent, although the right eye is slightly sunken, with a small marking on it. The right ear is a straight, elongated line that curves upward to the right, while the left ear is broad and wide, with its tip closely trimmed and curved downward.

The depth of the statue features three lines of muscle under the chin, with a prominent chest shaped like a bull’s head. The left collarbone is indented in a triangular shape. Below the left nipple are three small marks, and there is one growth beneath the right nipple.

The left arm is curved at the elbow, with a large palm resting on the lap, revealing the tip of the thumb raised high. The fingertips are elongated, and there is a marking of a growth on the left shin.

The back features fingerprints throughout, with the edges cut to curve upward, emphasizing that this is an authentic piece and not a molded replica.

I would like to thank the owner of this Phra Pong Suphan, old face type, Mr. Thanatat Thongniam, for generously providing images for this presentation, sharing knowledge and experiences in the study of amulets.

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