Phra Buddhasothorn: Faith, Buddhist Art and the Legend

This article explores Phra Buddhasothorn (Luang Pho Sothorn), the sacred Buddha image of Chachoengsao Province, examining its significance through the dimensions of legend, faith, history and art. Central to local belief is the legend of the “Floating Buddha Images,” linking Phra Buddhasothorn with two other venerated images in central Thailand. Historical evidence, including King Chulalongkorn’s royal letter in 1908 (R.S. 125), confirms both its artistic value and its enduring popularity. Scholarly research identifies the statue as belonging to the second phase of the U-Thong style in the early Ayutthaya period, carved from red sandstone in multiple assembled pieces. The article also discusses its official registration as a national antiquity, major conservation efforts by the Fine Arts Department and its living tradition of worship, including unique offerings such as boiled eggs and ritual string. The findings highlight Phra Buddhasothorn not only as a cultural monument but also as a profound symbol of Thai Buddhist faith, artistic heritage and enduring devotion.