Name/Title
Thai Buddhist Mokala (Disciple)Entry/Object ID
MK_0138Description
One of a harmonious pair from 19th century Bangkok, this Thai gilt and lacquer bronze figure of a seated acolyte, known as Mokala, embodies the essence of spiritual reverence. Each figure kneels, with hands posed in the anjali mudra, a gesture of adoration, their robes adorned with a delicate low relief design.
The reverent Mokala, a devoted follower of Buddha, originally knelt in worshipful harmony within a group surrounding a grand temple Buddha. Cast shortly after the shift of the Thai Capital to Bangkok in 1782, replacing the decaying Ayudhya, these gleaming figures wear opulent garb of gold leaf over black lacquer. Although they appear identical, look closely for the subtle pattern differences in the gold leaf "fabric." In this figure, there are patterns lotus flower in the fabric.
Once, in a Thai Buddhist temple, pairs of such kneeling acolytes might have knelt at the foot of a central Buddha image. Now, positioned on either side of the Mauna Kea's entryway, these figures welcome guests to the hotel, and invite viewers to connect with their enduring reverence and serenity.
This treasured piece has been in the Mauna Kea's collection since 1965, when Laurance Rockefeller developed the hotel, and was very recently restored and reguilded.Artwork Details
Medium
Bronze, Gold GildingMade/Created
Time Period
19th CenturyPlace
Country
ThailandContinent
AsiaDimensions
Height
40 inWidth
19-3/4 inLength
24 inLocation
Area
Main LobbyFloor
Lobby LevelBuilding
Main TowerRoom
Interim Main Lobby/Restaurant #3Building
Golf ClubhouseArea
Main LobbyFloor
Lobby LevelBuilding
Main Tower