Holy water font. Phra Malai's journey to hell
| Accession Nr.: | 4366 |
|---|---|
| Type: | sculpture; religious or cult object; statuette; small bronze |
| Date of production: |
early 19th century
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| Place of production: | |
| Acquisition: | collection of Ferenc Hopp |
| Materials/Techniques: | bronze, painted, gilt, mirror inlay |
|---|---|
| Dimensions: | height: 25cm width:10.5cm depth: 11.6 cm |
The story of the monk Phra Malai relates how during his journey through hell those tormented in the underworld begged him to intercede with their relatives living on earth by asking them to alleviate their agony by doing good deeds. The exquisitely detailed figure of the monk and his attire are juxtaposed to the nakedness of those agonising in hell, which symbolises the vast difference between the different spheres of existence.
