This is the first temple built in the city. It was constructed in 1296
by King Mengrai. It has been restored many times but the style is
essentially the same. The entrance is guarded by Burmese style lions.
The Viharn contains many Burmese features along with old Thai These is
a veranda across the front with low hanging decorations between the
front pillars which differs from the modern Thai style one sees in
Bangkok. The design is one of golden angels and foliage on blue. The
gable is one of the old northern Thai panel type, very artistic with
touches of gold and red. There also is an intricately carved three-head
elephant, Erawan, surmounted by a crown.
Inside, the Viharn is divided into nave and aisles by twelve teak
pillars. The high alter is very unusual. It seems to be a composite of
the Burmese and Hindu styles. It consists of five graduated
semi-spheres with a spire top. Inside this tower sits a small Buddha.
Outside the tower are nine other small Buddhas. In front of this sits a
large gilled Buddha with an expressive face. In front of this large
Buddha is a model of the Buddha Sila, which, when carried in procession
with libation of water poured over it, will bring rain. The real Buddha
Sila is kept in the abbot’s quarters for fear it will be stolen. One
may see it on request. It shows Buddha in bas-relief, not in the round.
To one side of Buddha is a kneeling elephant. It is reported to have
made by the King Ajasatru even years after Buddha attained Nivana. It
was brought from Ceylon by Kasob Thera in 1290. Beside the altar is an
attractive square receptacle with a square umbrella above it. This is
for the display of the real Buddha Sila during ceremonies.
There is another important Buddha called Pra Setanga Manee. It is made
of precious white stone on a solid gold base. It is one of the images
that King Mengrai took from Haripoonchai in 1281. On the interior walls
of the Viharn are nine murals in too bright colors, of no artistic
merit.
Returning to the outside of the outside of the Viharn on the south is a
new Sala with grillwork doors for the precious images when they are
bought outside for veneration by the people. It is covered with modern
tiles.
The Bot is very small as compared to the Viharn. It is surrounded by
Bai Sema in a disk and post design. They were possibly put in at
different periods.
Behind the Viharn is a very large Chedi supported by fifteen life size
elephants. Chiangmun means “strong and powerful city” and the elephant
is a symbol of strength.
by : sakuya | post :
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วันอาทิตย์ที่ 3 ตุลาคม พ.ศ 2553 21:46:44
