Jiu Huang Fozu Deity Sculptures: The Works of Peng Song

Abstract

This article is a study of the most important deity in the Vegetarian Festival known as
Jiu Huang Fozu, created by the sculptor Peng Song during 1964-1997, which is one form of the deity widely popular in various countries today. The research aimed to analyse various aspects which inspired the sculptor by comparing related paintings and sculptures that were found in China and Thailand before the 21st century and analysing the iconography through the study of Chinese scriptures and beliefs. The results of the study are as follows:
1. The Peng Song style of Jiu Huang Fozu deity sculptures was partially inspired by the group of Jiu Huang Fozu sculptures created after the reign of King Rama V, which are likely to exist only in Thailand.
2. The iconography of Jiu Huang Fozu of Peng Song work shows the worship of Ursa Major constellation, which is the original belief in Jiu Huang Fozu, combined with the worship of the Navagraha. The combination may affect only the Anam Nikaya Mahayana in Thailand which gives priority to Ursa Major.