Name/Title
Thai Buddhist Wheel of LawEntry/Object ID
MK_0149Description
Discover the captivating allure of this rare Thai Dvaravati limestone Buddhist wheel, a masterpiece from the 8th to 9th century.
Carved with precision, both sides feature the circular Buddhist Wheel of Law, accompanied by the enigmatic presence of small, unidentified male deities in the lalitasana pose at the wheel's base. Viewers may also note the small hole above the hub, which scholars have suggested may have originally been used to secure an ornament.
Originating from the kingdom of Dvaravati in central Thailand, this artifact provides a glimpse into the artistic brilliance of the Mon people. Dating back to a period when the Mon people thrived, the wheel serves as a testament to the cultural richness and spiritual significance of the Eight Fold Path - the guiding principle on the path to enlightenment, as expounded by the Buddha.
At each end of the base, two squatting yaksha, or earth guardians, silently bear witness to the ancient world, adding a layer of mystique to this already rare and exceptional piece - one of only a few known to exist. Symbolizing one of the oldest tenets of Buddhism, the Buddhist Wheel of Law encapsulates the essence of the Buddha's teachings.
As a relic of a bygone era, this Dvaravati Buddhist wheel is thus a crowning piece of the Mauna Kea’s collection, and a reflection of our commitment to the preservation and contemplation of global art and culture.
This treasured piece - the oldest in the Mauna Kea's collection - has been in the Mauna Kea's collection since 1965, when Laurance Rockefeller developed the hotel and was recently restored. Guests may have previously seen this piece in the 3rd floor of the beach wing.Made/Created
Time Period
8th Century, 9th CenturyPlace
Country
ThailandContinent
AsiaDimensions
Height
23-1/4 inWidth
5 inLength
19-3/4 inLocation
Area
Main LobbyFloor
Lobby LevelBuilding
Main TowerBuilding
IE Workshop* Untyped Location
OffsiteRoom
Kamani RoomBuilding
HBR Main TowerRoom
2nd Floor Art Storage RoomFloor
2nd FloorBuilding
Beach WingFloor
3rd FloorBuilding
Beach Wing