The pious Buddhist monk called Phra Malai is well known throughout Southeast Asia, especially in Thailand and Laos and has long figured prominently in Tai religious treatises, works of art, and rituals–particularly those associated with the afterlife. Legend has it that he was an arhat from Sri Lanka, who achieved great supernatural powers through his own merits and meditation. Phra Malai is mostly known for his extended travels to the heavens and hells. In one story this pious and compassionate monk descends to hell to give teach & comfort the suffering hell-beings there. He also learns how the hell-beings are punished according to their sins in the different hells. Phra Malai is also honored as a successor to Maudgalyayana, one of Buddha's foremost disciples noted for his skill in using his supernatural attainments.

Age: 17th Century.

Height: 30 cm.

Remarks: This piece would have originally held a dalapat in his left hand. A dalapat is an eye-screen to aid the monk in meditation, and according to popular belief, to ward of misfortunes.