Phra Chaiwat Songkhram (Phra Ngan), Ayutthaya Est. 300 - 400 Years Bucha 2 Inch Lap, 5.5 Inch Height

Phra Chaiwat Songkhram (Phra Ngan), Ayutthaya Est. 300 - 400 Years Bucha 

Size: 2 Inch Lap, 5.5 Inch Height

Ancient Ayutthaya Phra Chai Songkhram

The Sacred Buddha Image of Warriors and Warlords from the Ayutthaya Period

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Introduction

The Phra Chai Songkhram, an ancient Buddha image crafted during the middle to late Ayutthaya period (approximately 300-400 years old), holds immense historical and spiritual significance. In ancient times, warriors, generals, and commanders carried these sacred images into battle as a source of protection, courage, and spiritual strength. Upon returning from war, they would enshrine their Phra Chaiwat at temples, shrines, or pagodas, following the belief that Buddha images should be kept in sacred places rather than personal residences.

This particular Phra Chaiwat, cast in ancient bronze with black rust and filled with Thai soil, remains in its original and pristine condition, making it an exceptional artifact.

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Characteristics of the Phra Chaiwat Ayutthaya

The Phra Chaiwat from Ayutthaya is a small seated Buddha image in meditation posture, featuring:

✔ A delicate crown and full-body robe (Hom Pong)
✔ Thin bronze casting, almost fused with its base soil – a unique feature that cannot be replicated in counterfeits
✔ Aged green rust stains, indicating its long-standing history

This particular Buddha image measures:
✔ 2 inches in lap width
✔ 5.3 inches in height (from base to the tip of the head)

Unlike many Phra Chaiwat that have been cleaned and stripped of their natural patina, this piece retains its original temple soil, enhancing its authenticity and classic, untouched appearance. Similar Buddha images in this condition are typically only found in national museums.

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Historical Significance and Protective Powers

Throughout history, the Phra Chaiwat Ayutthaya has been renowned for its invulnerability, protection, and supernatural powers.

✔ Worn by warriors and soldiers – providing protection in battle
✔ Favored by law enforcement officers in the past (60-80 years ago) – carried during missions to apprehend criminals
✔ Highly regarded for its resilience – believed to be impervious to bullets, knives, and physical attacks

Ancient accounts describe this amulet as a powerful talisman against harm and danger, with wearers experiencing miraculous protection from injury.

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Discovery and Preservation

The Phra Chaiwat Ayutthaya has been primarily found in ancient temples, crypts, and pagodas. Some have also been discovered embedded in the walls of chapels, further proving their sacred origins.

Although the protective powers of these amulets were widely recognized in ancient times, many people initially overlooked their historical and spiritual value. As a result, these artifacts remained relatively unknown for many years.

However, in recent decades, antique collectors, both Thai and foreign, have sought out these national treasures, causing them to become increasingly scarce and difficult to find.

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Comparison with Modern Amulets

Many people today invest in newly created amulets, which are produced in large quantities. These modern amulets, often less than 50-100 years old, can never match the rarity and historical significance of a Phra Chaiwat Ayutthaya, which has survived centuries of history.

Unlike mass-produced amulets, ancient artifacts like the Phra Chaiwat Ayutthaya are finite—they cannot be replicated or created anew. As time passes, their availability diminishes, making them a true collector’s item.

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The Future Value of Phra Chaiwat Ayutthaya

✔ As an antique and historical artifact, the Phra Chaiwat Ayutthaya is expected to appreciate in value.
✔ Once recognized for its true worth, it will become a highly sought-after item in the amulet and antique communities.
✔ Its classic and untouched condition makes it unique, allowing collectors to admire its artistic, spiritual, and historical importance.

Owning a Phra Chaiwat Ayutthaya is more than just possessing an amulet—it is preserving a piece of Thai history that embodies Buddhist wisdom, ancient craftsmanship, and centuries of devotion.