A rare 90+ years old amulet of Phra Mongkhon Borphit from my Thai relative who is a vivd collector/trader of old and rare amulets. He was very generous to pass me quite a few amulets (see http://amuletforums.com/please-help-...6.html?t=13656). As promised in that earlier post, I have made an effort to ask him as much details as possible. I am trying to verify the information and supplement with more from the internet. More information from the knowledge AF bros and sis are most welcome.


Hope you like this thread.

Warmest Regards,
Chris





Image: Phra Mongkhon Bophit
Temple: Wat Mongkhon Bophit (Ayutthaya)
Consecrated: Unknown
Year: ~ 1917 (First batch)
Size: 3.5cm (height) x 2.5cm (width)

Information that I found:

History of Wat Mongkhon Bophit (From signboard in temple)

Phra Mongkhon Bophit is one of the largest bronze Buddha images in Thailand. The image measures 9.55 metres at the widest point across the lap, and 12.45 metres high without the base. This Buddha image is seated in the position of subduing mara and situated on the west side of the old palace compound in the Vihara of Phra Mongkhon Bophit temple. The image is believed to have been constructed in the early Ayutthaya period between 1448 to 1602 A.D. and was originally situated at the east side of the old palace compound. Later, during the reign of King Song Tham it was moved to the west side and a Mondop was built to shelter it. During the reign of King Phra Chao Sua (1706 A.D.) the top part of the Mondop and the head of the image were damaged by the lightning. The Mondop was converted into a Vihara and the main restoration of Phra Mongkhon Bophit was completed during the reign of King BoromaKote (1742-1743 A.D.) During the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom in 1767, the roof of the Vihara was damaged by the fire and the head and the right arm of the image were broken. Later, the image was repaired and the Vihara was completely restored again in 1956. On 23rd March 1990, the Supreme Patriarch presided over a candle lighting ceremony in front of the image and announced that people could honour the image by covering it with gold leaf. H.M. Queen Sirikit auspiciously paid homage to the image and donated Baht 70,000 to the restoration fund. Henceforward, the Mongkhon Bophit Foundation undertook to cover the image with gold leaf in celebration of the 60th birthday of H.M. Queen Sirikit.

Photos of Wat Mongkhon Bophit can be found at http://nadweeb.g33ks.org/gallery2/ma...g2_itemId=5833