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Throne Crossbar with Makara Finial

Central Thailand

first half of the 8th century

Not on view

This throne crossbar once graced a monumental enthroned Buddha ensemble at Nakhon Pathom, likely the seated Buddha later transferred to Wat Na Phra Men in Ayutthaya or a similar ensemble, now lost. The crossbar is decorated with classic Mon-style alternating flower and lozenge motifs with vegetal meander infill. The terminal depicts a horned makara (aquatic monster) whose fanged jaws reveal a rearing lion, the lion’s roar being a metaphor for the Buddha’s propagation of the dharma.

cat. no. 114

Throne Crossbar with Makara Finial, Schist, Central Thailand — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Throne Crossbar with Makara Finial, Schist, Central Thailand

Throne Crossbar with Makara Finial, Schist, Central Thailand

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Throne Crossbar with Makara Finial

Date: first half of the 8th century

Culture: Central Thailand

Medium: Schist

Dimensions: H. 18 1/2 in. (47 cm); D. 7 7/8 in. (20 cm); L. 38 9/16 in. (98 cm); Wt. 324 lbs (147 kg)

Classification: Sculpture

Credit Line: Lent by Phra Pathom Chedi National Museum, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand (626/2519)

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