Artist: Ko Ko Latt

(pseudonym: Lu Htun)

* 1964 in Yangon, Myanmar

Art student in Yangon, taught by the masters Mg Mg Hla Myint, Win Pe Myint and others. Since 1985, he has regularly shown his works at exhibitions in Myanmar.

 

Interpretation

The front presents symbolic figures – an integral part of the world of faith of Myanmar.

The top position is reserved for the one who discovered The Four Noble Truths all by him – Buddha. His portrait is flanked by two Brahmas, bright creatures in the top regions of the mythological mountain Meru – free of worldly desires and close to the entrance to Nirvana.

On the right and on the left on the Buddha’s arms we can see Thagyamin, King of Ghosts and ruler of the sky of Tavatimsa, beneath the domains of the Brahmas. He is the Myanmar version of the Indian God Sakka, protector of Buddhism. Thagyamin is immensely popular and is very often called upon.

Beneath the Buddha is the image of Galoun, King of Birds. He is the Myanmar version of the Sun Eagle, Vedisch Garuda.

The bear’s belly is decorated with the powerful and dynamic figure of Bilu, who appears in many fairy tales and oral traditions. He is mostly described as rough and sinister, also characterised as a cannibal - but at times he can also be helpful and good.

On the thighs, two chinthe are looking out – mythological lions often placed in front of pagodas sentinels, symbolising courage, power and bravery.

Beneath them, one Naga each – the mythological snake that is bound to the earth, ruler of the water and Galoun’s opponent - finishes the roundel. Once, when the future Buddha was deeply lost in meditation, one Naga protected him from a raging storm.

They are all considered to be protectors – to be addressed to prevent the Buddhas and human beings from all types of misfortune.

The back shows typical motifs characterising the landscape of Myanmar: one monastery and two monks with umbrellas, pagodas and toddy palms.

Ko Ko Latt

Sponsor: Embassy of the Union of Myanmar