Siamese Buddhist temple mural-style painting c. 1850

Siamese Buddhist Temple Mural-Style Painting, c.1850
Executed on linen, likely from central Thailand, this painting illustrates a scene from the Ramayana (Ramakien in Thai tradition) — the revered Thai epic adapted from the Indian Ramayana. The composition and iconography are consistent with Rattanakosin-period temple murals of the early-to-mid 19th century.
Right side: A hunt by a princely figure (Phra Ram, the Thai Rama) astride a richly adorned elephant, accompanied by attendants. The presence of golden crowns and leaf-shaped fans (phat yot) indicates royal or divine status.
Left side: A pavilion scene with courtly figures, depicting an audience or ceremonial exchange. The detailed architectural elements — tiered roofs, columns, and decorative eaves — reflect the meticulous rendering of royal palace or temple architecture typical of the period.





