Phra Atchana

Seated Buddha, Wat Sri Chum, 13th century

This large image of the seated Buddha is over 15m (45 feet) high. It is believed to be the statue that was referred to as "Phra Atchana" ("Immovable Buddha") in a contemporaneous inscription of King Ramkhamhaeng. An exemplar of Sukhothai Style, the image is constructed of stucco over brick and its hands are disposed in bhumisparsha mudra. The statue is evidently in fine condition, despite its current exposure to the elements.

The statue is sometimes called the "Talking Buddha," since according to a local legend it is capable of speech.