Phra Pong Suphan, young face type, made of red clay and coated with a brown herbal lacquer, from Wat Phra Si Mahathat, Suphan Buri Province, belonging to Mr. Thanatat Thongniam

Phra Pong Suphan, young face type, made of red clay and coated with a brown herbal lacquer, from Wat Phra Si Mahathat, Suphan Buri Province, is one of the most popular pieces in the Benja Pakhi collection. This figure is crafted from clay without any gravel or sand mixed in, resulting in beautiful red clay. The figure is cut into a triangular shape with wide wings extending beyond the knees and away from both ears. At the peak of the triangle, there is a protruding growth on the head of the figure, following the original Buddhist art style, as it is a statue positioned under an arch. When the wings are removed, it retains the triangular peak above the figure’s head.

The head of the statue is oval-shaped, with a distinct facial frame. The hair is styled in a pointed lotus shape. Both eyes are present, the nose is high and prominent, and the lips form a double-layered shape. The left and right ears are thick, with the tips almost reaching the shoulders. The neck has a broad curve, and the chest is prominently raised. The right arm is positioned straight, with the hand resting above the right knee, the thumb extended outward. The left arm is straight but bent at the elbow, with a large and long hand resting on the lap. The right foot is raised, with the sole facing upward above the left knee, while the left foot is tucked under the right knee, with the sole also facing upward.

The back of the figure has been pressed with fingerprints in a spiral pattern. The edges are cut into a triangular shape that curves upward due to the wing being cut with a wooden chisel. When the chisel is withdrawn, it scrapes the side material, causing the edges to lift, which is a unique characteristic and a significant point of authenticity. There are traces of burial clay and herbal lacquer firmly adhered.

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