Is it possible for a temple to echo the lifestyle of a community? Welcome to Wat Bua Kaeo Satthatham. Here, we will explore a temple noted for its murals and sculptures. It is located in Ban Wang Khun. You can easily reach it.
Wat Bua Kaeo Satthatham was established in 1916. It received royal support in 1931. The sculptures were created by Luangpho Phui. You will see sculptures of men stretching their legs at the front. They are just before the guardian lions. The guardian lions sit on both sides of the staircase.
The murals at Wat Bua Kaeo Satthatham are the main highlight. All the walls have murals. They depict the lifestyle of people. The murals include scenes from folklore. You will see depictions of heaven and hell. The murals also portray history and scenes from the life of Buddha.
Luangpho Phui used Sinthao lines. These lines separate the murals. A Sinthao line is a flash-shaped pattern. It was widely used during the Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin periods.
Many murals at Wat Bua Kaeo Satthatham depict Jataka tales. Primarily, they show the ‘Phra Lak Phra Lam’. This is the re-recital of the Rama epic. It is the national epic of Lao people.
The inner walls of Wat Bua Kaeo Satthatham show Buddha’s life. From his birth to great Renunciation, you’ll see the vanquishing of Mara. You can also see the achieving of Nirvana. The outer walls give a pictorial peek. They show the local folktale of Sangkha Sinsai. These were added later. They were not part of the temple initially.
Each mural expresses freedom. The artist had this freedom at the time of creation. Each brushstroke shows strong feelings. It presents proof of the height of his art.
In 1998, Siam society restored the murals. They reconstructed the roof. This was under strict supervision. Today, Wat Bua Kaeo Satthatham stands in its former glory. Its design and architecture are intact. Wat Bua Kaeo Satthatham opens daily. You can visit from 8 am to 5 pm. Take your time to observe the intricate details. Appreciate the stories they tell.