This is an old authentic shrine alms bowl used to celebrate Luang Phor Tuad (aka LP Thaud), a legionary high priest of Buddhism. His story starts from the Kingdom of Ayutthaya period (circa 1580 A.D.) and he lived during the reign of King Maha Dhammaraja. LP Tuad is probably one of the most revered and well respected former guru monks that have ever lived. He was a pure humanitarian and thousands gather annually (in April) at Wat Changhai and Wat Phra Kho temples to pray and provide homage. There are many shrines built in his honor throughout Thailand and Malaysia.
Sitting on top of this vessel is his image. A similar image – 36 feet tall – is located at the Wat Huay Mongkol temple complex, near Hua Hin Thailand.
The bowl was owned by a family in the old city of Ayutthaya. The grandchildren of the owners sold / gifted it to a Malay family living in Melbourne. I think it was at that time that the vessel was used for incense burning within a home shrine. The heirs of that family included it in an estate sale. It was purchase by an antique dealer in Sydney. I acquired it from that dealer recently.
With all the ownership data, this item can be dated to the late-1800s to early-1900s. Two nagas (a serpent deity in Buddhist, Hindu and Jain mythology) are on each side of the statue. Notice the Thai text on the lid.
This is a phenomenal one-of-a-kind piece, full of sacred history
It is comprised of a clay composite that is lacquered with a viscous wood/peat tar glaze.
This is an historic piece that deserves a Serious Collector.