Buddhist Manuscript Chest Heep Phra Tham - Wood - Thailand - Rattanakosin late 19th - early 20th century

Exceptional lacquered and gilded wooden monastic chest from Buddhist temples, trapezoidal in shape with an inverted pyramidal structure, traditionally intended to preserve sacred palm-leaf texts (Khamphi Bailan).

This chest bears witness to remarkable metalwork craftsmanship according to the traditional Lai Rot Nam technique (gold leaf on rubbed water). The decorative detail, of remarkable finesse, covers the entire piece with a dense network of foliate scrolls, blossoming flowers, and stylized flame motifs (Lai Kranok), standing out magnificently against a vermilion red lacquer background.

The object consists of three modular elements of interlocking original origin:

- A principal chest with oblique walls.
- A molded socle base resting on four curved feet called “lion’s paws.”
- A terrace-style lid echoing the base moldings.

Details and dimensions:
Origin: Thailand (Former Kingdom of Siam)
Period: 19th-20th century (Rattanakosin period)
Technique: Carved wood, red lacquer and gold leaf gilding (Lai Rot Nam).

Condition Report
Good overall condition for an object of this age intended for religious use. The gold leaf retains a superb brilliance and a beautiful patina of age. Normal signs of use, slight lacquer wear, localized loss of gilding and natural age cracks on the wood, especially at the corners and on the base, reinforcing the piece’s authenticity. The interior in raw wood shows oxidation marks and a natural patina attest­ing to its age. Sound and stable structure.

Expert Note
In Siamese tradition, commissioning and gifting such a chest to a temple (Wat) was a supreme Buddhist devotional act aimed at accumulating spiritual merit. Today, these pieces are highly sought after for their monumental aesthetic presence. With its ideal proportions and refined graphic design, this devotional furniture integrates perfectly into a contemporary interior, capable of serving as a side table or a high-curiosity object. A very fine collectible piece.

This object comes from a private European collection. It was originally acquired from a connoisseur of Asian art, accompanied at the time by an appraisal certificate valuing it at 3,000 euros (document now missing). The chest is offered for sale in full agreement with its current owner, who is parting with it as part of an amicable settlement. The authenticity of the piece and its period (19th century) are fully attested by its workmanship quality, natural patina and the structural characteristics visible in the photos.