Thai Gilded Temple Panel With Dharmachakra And Naga | Circa Late 19th Century
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Thai Gilded Temple Panel With Dharmachakra And Naga | Circa Late 19th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Thailand (Rattanakosin/Lanna tradition)
Material: Carved teakwood with red lacquer and gold leaf (gilded); later hanging wire on reverse
Period: Late 19th Century
Description
Impressive architectural shrine panel richly carved in high relief and gilded over red lacquer. At center is a dharmachakra (Wheel of the Law) within a foliate aureole, flanked by confronting naga serpents that rise from a lotus-like base and curl along the border in scale pattern. The crest terminates in a flame-shaped kranok finial—classic Thai Buddhist ornament. Likely produced as a decorative element for a temple altar/throne back or as an interior architectural panel and later fitted for wall display.
Features
- Central dharmachakra symbol of the Buddha’s teaching
- Twin protective naga with scale-carved borders
- Original red lacquer ground with extensive parcel gilding
- Substantial hand-carved teak; presents with excellent wall presence
Cultural Significance
The dharmachakra embodies the “turning of the Wheel” at the Buddha’s first sermon, while naga serpents are temple guardians—together signifying protection of the Dharma and auspicious merit in Thai Buddhist art.
Condition
Good antique condition with expected age wear: stable age cracks (notably a vertical seam through the center), scattered abrasions and gilt losses, minor nicks to edges, and small old fills. Structurally sound and ready to hang.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 24.5 in
Width: 15 in
Age (Approximate)
125–155 years old
Provenance
From the estate of Paul Rondo, Seattle, Washington, USA. Rondo was a well known private collector whose holdings included Pre-Columbian and Chinese ceramic. Subsequently handled by Palmyra Heritage Gallery, New York, and later acquired by a private collector in New York, New York, USA
Learn More
Explore Buddhist Art & Architecture in Thailand
Browse our curated Eastern Antiquities & Cultural Relics Collection
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Thailand (Rattanakosin/Lanna tradition)
Material: Carved teakwood with red lacquer and gold leaf (gilded); later hanging wire on reverse
Period: Late 19th Century
Description
Impressive architectural shrine panel richly carved in high relief and gilded over red lacquer. At center is a dharmachakra (Wheel of the Law) within a foliate aureole, flanked by confronting naga serpents that rise from a lotus-like base and curl along the border in scale pattern. The crest terminates in a flame-shaped kranok finial—classic Thai Buddhist ornament. Likely produced as a decorative element for a temple altar/throne back or as an interior architectural panel and later fitted for wall display.
Features
- Central dharmachakra symbol of the Buddha’s teaching
- Twin protective naga with scale-carved borders
- Original red lacquer ground with extensive parcel gilding
- Substantial hand-carved teak; presents with excellent wall presence
Cultural Significance
The dharmachakra embodies the “turning of the Wheel” at the Buddha’s first sermon, while naga serpents are temple guardians—together signifying protection of the Dharma and auspicious merit in Thai Buddhist art.
Condition
Good antique condition with expected age wear: stable age cracks (notably a vertical seam through the center), scattered abrasions and gilt losses, minor nicks to edges, and small old fills. Structurally sound and ready to hang.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 24.5 in
Width: 15 in
Age (Approximate)
125–155 years old
Provenance
From the estate of Paul Rondo, Seattle, Washington, USA. Rondo was a well known private collector whose holdings included Pre-Columbian and Chinese ceramic. Subsequently handled by Palmyra Heritage Gallery, New York, and later acquired by a private collector in New York, New York, USA
Learn More
Explore Buddhist Art & Architecture in Thailand
Browse our curated Eastern Antiquities & Cultural Relics Collection
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