Gold: From Cosmic Element to Buddhist Sculpture

This article explores the role of gold in the contexts of geology, ancient civilizations and Buddhist art, with particular emphasis on its use in the making of Buddha images and gilding practices. Gold, valued for its brilliance and incorruptibility, has long symbolized sacredness, power and prosperity. The study traces its cosmic and geological origins, its presence in ancient cultures such as Egypt, India and China and its adaptation in Buddhism as both a symbolic and material medium of devotion. Examples include early Indian and Chinese golden Buddha images, as well as Thailand’s celebrated Phra Phuttha Maha Suwan Patimakon (Golden Buddha). The article also examines traditional casting technologies such as the lost-wax method, the ritual act of gilding with gold leaf and the continuing practice of offering gold as merit-making. The findings argue that gold is not merely a natural element but a cosmic and spiritual element of faith, embodying artistic mastery, devotional significance and cultural identity, thus deserving conservation and educational promotion for future generations.