Suan Pakkad Palace Lacquer Pavilion: Life of the Buddha - Nairanjana River Miracle

THAILAND, Bangkok; Ayutthaya Kingdom

This image is part of a mural dating from the rule of King Ramathibodi III (reigned 1656–1688). It depicts the Buddha levitating above the Nairanjana River, a miracle that convinced the three Kasyapa brothers and their thousand disciples to abandon fire worship and convert to Buddhism.
Rounded waves suggest that the river water is moving rapidly. The Buddha, surrounded by flame patterns and a contoured mandorla, sits calmly in lotus position above the river. On the right, the Kasyapa brothers and their disciples paddle a boat and look at the Buddha in amazement. The Buddha is depicted again on the upper left, hovering in the air, surrounded by falling flowers. Delicate golden lines contrast with the black background. The addition of a small figure fishing in the river on the far left adds a touch of humor to the picture.