Phra Somdej Wat Rakhang Kositaram, Large Mold, Type 4, Clear Lacquer Coating by Somdet Phra Buddhacharn (To Phrommarangsi)

The Phra Somdej Wat Rakhang, Large Mold, Type 4 is characterized by its distinctive topknot extending through the arched niche, and the mirror frame, making it the slimmest among the four types of large molds. This particular piece is coated with a brown clear lacquer, and its surface and texture are beautifully preserved. There are few pinholes, worm trails, and sacred grains, resulting in a relatively smooth surface, which also means the figure has contracted significantly, giving it a more slender appearance with sharper features than usual.

The mirror frame is clearly defined on all four sides, with the left frame cutting down to the arched niche at the elbow area of the Buddha figure, which is a distinguishing feature of all four large molds of Phra Somdej Wat Rakhang.

The arched niche is slender and well-preserved, standing perpendicular in an elegant manner. The Buddha figure stands straight but has contracted to a slender form. The head is round, though the left side of the chin has a slight scrape from the mold removal. The topknot is a fine, sharp line that extends through the arched niche.

Neither ear is visible, but the neck line is sharply defined. Both arms are proportionate, appearing slender due to significant contraction and depth. The body is thin, with a central groove marking the edge of the sanghati. The lap is clearly defined, and the left foot is sharply visible, almost reaching the right knee.

The third level of the base is sharply defined, while the second level features clear lion’s paw marks on both sides. The first level is a flat base, with the right side cut diagonally in a hatchet-like shape.

The back of the amulet is smooth, with visible pinholes, worm trails, sacred grains, and ant trails, consistent with the theory of the Phra Somdej Wat Rakhang Kositaram.

I would like to thank Mr. Thanathat Thongniam for providing the images of this Phra Somdej Wat Rakhang, Large Mold, Type 4, and allowing me to use them for this academic description.

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