Suan Pakkad Palace Lacquer Pavilion: Life of the Buddha - The Final Journey

THAILAND, Bangkok; Ayutthaya Kingdom

In the Buddha’s last years, he knew that his time in the human world would soon be exhausted, yet he was as diligent as possible, tirelessly traveling to transmit the Dharma. This image is part of a mural that portrays the Buddha on his final journey, leading the Sangha to Kushinagar. Sick and weary, the Buddha stopped to rest, and asked Ananda to go to the riverside nearby to fetch water. However, the river had become muddy because an ox-drawn cart was crossing. The Buddha employed his miraculous powers and instantly turned the water clear.
Ananda, standing by the riverbank, is partially visible at the top of the painting. Two peasants stand in the center of the river, trying to guide their cart and oxen through the water. They stand in dynamic poses, appearing concerned with their progress across the river. Concentric arching lines are used to depict the flowing water. The peasants and oxen are portrayed in detail, resulting in a lively scene of everyday life portrayed with a clever combination of idealistic and realistic techniques.