Cracks in 300-year-old Buddha statue in Samut Sakhon reveal core

A centuries-old Buddha statue in Samut Sakhon has cracked, revealing an ancient laterite core. The Fine Arts Department confirmed it is the work of ancient craftsmen, showing distinct differences between the outer and inner statues.

The Buddha statue, over 300 years old, located at Wat Khok Kham in Samut Sakhon, shows significant cracks exposing an inner statue made of laterite.

Reporters visiting Wat Khok Kham in Khok Kham subdistrict, Mueang district, Samut Sakhon province, found that three Buddha statues have developed cracks. This includes the principal statue and two surrounding statues, collectively known by locals as the Eight Arahants.

The cracked pieces have fallen to the base and have not been moved. Inside the two cracked statues flanking the principal statue, another Buddha statue, resembling laterite, is visible. The head of the inner statue is particularly clear.

Monks and disciples at Wat Khok Kham noted that the cracks appeared early last month, revealing the inner statue. They notified the Fine Arts Department since the temple, over 300 years old, is registered as an ancient monument under the care of the Fine Arts Department’s Office 1 in Ratchaburi.

Experts from the Fine Arts Department explained that such construction is typical of the Ayutthaya period, known as Klon Phra, where an inner statue is crafted to resemble the outer one, though with less precision. The inner statue’s facial features and body shape mirror the outer statue but with less sharpness. The department plans to survey the site to develop a restoration and conservation plan.

The Buddha statues around the principal statue in this ancient temple have been part of the temple for over 300 years. Given the temple’s age, dating back to 1679, these statues have naturally deteriorated over time.

Following the discovery, Phra Khru Sakornrattanaporn, the abbot of Wat Khok Kham and head of the Mahachai subdistrict, ordered barriers to prevent people from approaching the statues closely, fearing further damage.

Additionally, the temple has requested a temporary halt to the traditional practices of applying gold leaf and offering flowers and garlands to the statues until the Fine Arts Department completes the restoration and conservation efforts. However, the temple remains open for worshippers to pay their respects, reported KhaoSod.