Khrua In Khong

Unknown – c.1860

A famous monk and painter during the reign of King Rama IV (1851-68), Khong is remembered for his adoption of Western styles into traditional Thai art. During his lifetime he was well respected, despite being a subordinate painter in the employ of the king. It was Rama IV who encouraged Khong to adopt the Western style and to incorporate it into the murals he was commissioned to create. In order to complete these works, Khong would lock himself in his monk’s residence, barring all visitors in case they should break his concentration. Shown here is a painting depicting Bhuddha blossoming like a lotus.