Hi Janice,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
The story of Buddha and Muchalinda is a well-known episode in Buddhist tradition, particularly in Theravada Buddhism. It is about an incident that occurred shortly after Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, attained enlightenment.

According to the story, after Siddhartha Gautama achieved enlightenment while meditating under the Bodhi tree, he remained in deep contemplation for seven days, experiencing the bliss of liberation. During this time, a severe storm arose in the region, with torrential rains and violent winds threatening to disrupt the Buddha's meditation.

In response to the storm, a large serpent king named Muchalinda emerged from his dwelling beneath the earth and coiled himself around the Buddha. With his massive hood spread out like an umbrella, Muchalinda shielded the Buddha from the elements, protecting him from the rain and wind. The serpent king remained in this position until the storm subsided and the Buddha emerged from his meditative state.

Once the storm had passed and the Buddha opened his eyes, he recognized Muchalinda's act of kindness and compassion. In gratitude, the Buddha blessed Muchalinda and continued his journey of teaching and spreading the Dharma (the teachings of Buddhism).

The story of Buddha and Muchalinda symbolizes several key principles in Buddhism, including compassion, protection, and the interdependence of all beings. It highlights the idea that all beings, regardless of their form or nature, possess the potential for goodness and the capacity for acts of kindness and selflessness. Additionally, the story emphasizes the importance of protecting and supporting those who are engaged in spiritual practice and the pursuit of enlightenment.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A carved and giltwood Thai Muchalinda buddha
17th-18th Century
The buddha, seated in virasana (half-lotus pose), with hands folded, under the coiled 7-headed hood and body of the snake king Muchalinda.
11-1/2 inches tall
CONDITION: This buddha remains in good condition with some cracking and lifting to gilding and losses to lacquer, all commensurate to age.
PROVENANCE: Inherited; originally acquired in Bangkok in 1959.
$1,000-1,500*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia