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A rare, Thai temple Biku Chain Backing from the early 20th Century. The Wheel of Dharma, the eight spoked wheel has an elegant floral pattern at its center. The inlaid glass inside the wheel is set in diamond form and in the sun’s light they shine brilliantly. This reflection of light could be seen as a metaphor for the illumination that this chair’s owner once shared with many. Above the Wheel of Dharma at the apex of the chair backing we see an elegant four petalled flower. This flower also serves as the starting point for the downward descending guardian Nagas.
The Ayutthaya Kingdom of the Siam people ruled from 1350 to 1767. They were friendly toward foreign traders and their kingdom saw frequent visitors from China, Vietnam, India, Japan and Persia, while later traders included emissaries from Portugal, Spain, the Netherlands and France. All of these people were allowed to set up villages outside the walls of the royal capital city. The court of King Narai (1656-88) had strong ties with King Louis XIV of France whose ambassadors compared the city in size and wealth to Paris. Ayutthaya’s main religion was Theravada Buddhism. Monasteries, monks and their Abbots held great prestige in the culture. The head of the monastery known as the Biku was considered a figure of great wisdom and authority. From his chair in the monastery he would lecture to the monks. His was the seat of spiritual authority. This beautiful early 20th Century Biku Chair Backing is centered by a beautiful carved and glass inlay depiction of the Wheel of Dharma. The Dharma is protected by twin Naga Serpent/Dragon Deities.
Just as the chair supports the backbone and the backbone the will, may we find support, an appreciation for the cycles of life, and the protection of the celestial guardians.
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The Ayutthaya Kingdom of the Siam people ruled from 1350 to 1767. They were friendly toward foreign traders and their kingdom saw frequent visitors from China, Vietnam, India, Japan and Persia, while later traders included emissaries from Portugal, Spain, the Netherlands and France. All of these people were allowed to set up villages outside the walls of the royal capital city. The court of King Narai (1656-88) had strong ties with King Louis XIV of France whose ambassadors compared the city in size and wealth to Paris. Ayutthaya’s main religion was Theravada Buddhism. Monasteries, monks and their Abbots held great prestige in the culture. The head of the monastery known as the Biku was considered a figure of great wisdom and authority. From his chair in the monastery he would lecture to the monks. His was the seat of spiritual authority. This beautiful early 20th Century Biku Chair Backing is centered by a beautiful carved and glass inlay depiction of the Wheel of Dharma. The Dharma is protected by twin Naga Serpent/Dragon Deities.
Just as the chair supports the backbone and the backbone the will, may we find support, an appreciation for the cycles of life, and the protection of the celestial guardians.
...
| Store location | Om orchard |
| Weight including packaging (lbs) | 10.0000 |
| Height | 26 in. | 66 cm |
| Width | 13 in. | 33 cm |
| Artifact type | Furniture |
| Materials | Glass inlay, Hardwood, Lacquer |
| Period | Early 20th century |
| Country of origin | Thailand |
| Certificate of authenticity | Click here to view |
See what some of our satisfied customers have to say:
Brian - fast service and beautiful jewelry
I bought some jewelry from their lotus galleries on Kauai in the past, but I've never used the website before. Anyways, everything went fast and I didn't have to pay for shipping. I'm very happy with my pearl bracelet, it's beautiful :) Mahalo
Christine - very unique stone
I own a meditation and yoga studio and I had a chance to visit your gallery in Kapaa and meet the owner. Since I got your lingam stone all my students noticed a huge difference in energy flow and feel much calmer when meditating. I've been to India myself and I know how hard is to find them in such a good shape and size. btw. Thank you for your presentation and hope to see you again,
Roy L - good service, we'll buy again
I was surprised to see my Quan Yin garden statue arrive so quickly, it now sits in the garden overlooking the fish pond. I will order again with confidence. Thank you
Crystal - most beautiful pendant I've ever seen
I wear jyotish jewelry all the time and this one is one of my favorites. Thank you very much for your beautiful collection. It'd be nice to see more pictures though.
Maria - thank you !
I love your Tahitian black pearl rings, but please show more pictures for your products, maybe something like a picture of a woman wearing the piece to see how big it is. Thank you for a quick and friendly service, hope to visit Hawaii some time :).
Amy - gorgeous earrings, thank you
The only thing that I'd like to see on your website is more pictures. Other than that everything went smooth and I really enjoy your earrings. Thank you,
Gabi D. - love your shell necklace
I visited your Poipu gallery this summer and it was incredible to see a piece of Tibet in a tropical paradise. I wanted to thank you for this beautiful necklace. Best regards,
James, Santa Fe - found a gift for mother's day
I have to admit I was worrying a little about the shipment from Hawaii arriving on time, but delivery was exceptionally fast and my mother loved the earrings I got for her. Keep up the good work.
Mike D. - amazing collection
I was surprised at the rare collection of artifacts on your website. I particularly collect Buddha statues, but was happy to also find bronze Buddha hands that made a great addition to my house. Thank you for a friendly service,
