Description
Phra Nang Phaya – The Queen of Thai Amulets
Phra Nang Phaya is one of the most revered and highly collected Buddhist amulets in Thailand. Often referred to as the Queen of Thai Amulets, it holds a distinguished position within the Benjapakee, the five most celebrated types of Thai Buddhist amulets.
The history of Phra Nang Phaya is closely associated with Wat Nang Phaya in Phitsanulok Province, Thailand. Its origins are traditionally traced to the Ayutthaya period during the 16th century. Historical accounts associate its creation with Queen Wisutthikasattri, the consort of King Maha Thammarachathirat and mother of King Naresuan the Great. The Queen is traditionally credited with establishing or restoring Wat Nang Phaya and commissioning Buddhist amulets as part of religious merit-making activities. However, the precise date and circumstances of their earliest production remain uncertain.
Wat Nang Phaya is situated near Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburana, two historically significant Buddhist temples in Phitsanulok. These temples have longstanding associations with the religious and cultural history of the Ayutthaya period.
A significant discovery of Phra Nang Phaya amulets occurred in B.E. 2444 (A.D. 1901), during the reign of King Rama V. While preparing the temple grounds for the King’s royal visit to Phitsanulok, workers uncovered numerous clay amulets from the old temple grounds. Historical accounts record that some of these amulets were subsequently presented to King Rama V, who distributed them among royal officials and members of his entourage. This discovery contributed to the growing recognition of Phra Nang Phaya among Buddhist devotees and collectors.
Phra Nang Phaya is distinguished by its triangular shape and the seated Buddha depicted in the Mara Vijaya posture, representing the Buddha’s victory over Mara. The traditional design generally features the Buddha seated without a surrounding decorative arch or pedestal. Classic examples associated with Wat Nang Phaya were produced using fired clay, with variations in colour, texture and surface characteristics.
The six principal moulds traditionally recognised by collectors are Pim Khao Khong, Pim Khao Trong, Pim Ok Nun Yai, Pim Ok Nun Lek, Pim Sangkati and Pim Thewada. Each mould displays distinctive differences in the Buddha’s proportions, chest, robe details and seated posture.
Today, Phra Nang Phaya remains an important part of Thai Buddhist heritage, valued by worshippers and collectors for its religious significance, historical associations and distinctive craftsmanship.
