Description
In Buddhism, monks are particularly important in Thailand, occupying a significant place in Thai society, where life still largely takes place in the temple. Many Thais have an image of a Buddha in their homes, but often also of a monk with significant significance. These are often monks from the past who have done much good and should not be forgotten. The statues of monks are true works of art, crafted by skilled artists from wax and fiberglass. Because high-quality resin is used today, the statues are less susceptible to higher temperatures and remain beautiful in the homes of average Thai families, which often lack air conditioning. The production process is quite complicated. First, a model is made, from which a negative is then made, from which a plaster cast is made using a latex mold. This positive image will later be used to make a one-time cast of the actual artwork. The main mold is filled with resin and allowed to harden. (Arms, legs and head are cast separately to prevent breakage) Later everything is put together and the statue is worked on with special tools to give it a lifelike appearance, birthmarks and tattoos are applied and the hairs are carefully attached to the head one by one and finally the clothes are made to measure.
The most beautiful wax monks are in the museum in Nakhon Pathom.
LP Suk of Wat Makhamtao (1847–1934 CE) was perhaps the greatest Wicha master of modern times. He was known for his amazing powers of transformation. The most famous legends were the one where he transformed elephants belonging to some arrogant merchants into houseflies and where he was transformed from a man into a crocodile. This latter story was widely reported in Thailand at the time, and many witnesses witnessed the event. LP Suk had many followers, but his favorite devotee was, of course, Prince Chumpon, founder of the Thai navy
