Queen Chamadevi Mural—Lamphun, Thailand.
Posted by: 
Ianatlarge
N 18° 34.560 E 099° 01.200
47Q E 502110 N 2053913
A beautiful mural of a beautiful lady, in northern Thailand.
Waymark Code: WMDW0Z
Location: Thailand
Date Posted: 02/28/2012
Views: 1
Queen Chamadevi is the legendary founder of the city of Lamphun. The dates given for this foundation range between the 7th and 9th centuries CE, however, a specific date of 661 CE is often given. The legend states that the Queen was invited to rule the city by a group of Buddhist monks. Queen Chamadevi’s dynasty lasted until the mid 11th century. The city experienced the ups and downs of the region. For two centuries ruled by Burma, independent, ruled by its powerful neighbour of Chiang Mai, and now part of the Kingdom of Thailand.
A mural of the Queen exists at the rear of the main temple building, the ordination hall, of the ancient Lamphun temple of Wat Phra Yeun. This Wat, according to legend, was founded by the Queen. The mural faces towards the ancient stupa in the wat grounds.
The mural is clearly of recent origin, however, the entire temple (apart from the ancient stupa), has clearly undergone extensive renovations several times in its history, yet, I was told that everything was in its original place. Thus it is possibly, in fact likely (as Kings and Queens enjoy having their picture on prominent display), that there has been an image of this Queen here since the foundation of the city.
The mural depicts the Queen visiting the ancient stupa at the temple, with her handmaidens, making an offering. The mural is distinctive in that the images are not stylised, as are some Thai Buddhist wat murals. I do not believe that an actual likeness of the Queen exists, but I do believe that she would be happy with this interperation of her life.
Having said that, unfortunately, I visited at a time (morning) when the sun behind and to the side of the building. Thus the image is in shade. A better image would be better.
City: Lamphung
Location Name: Wat Phra Yuen
Artist: Unknown
Date: Unknown
Media: Wooden surface.
Relevant Web Site: [Web Link]
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