Phra Pidta of Luang Pu Iam Pathamanam, Wat Saphan Sung

1853 - 1896

The creation of Phra Pidta by Luang Pu Iam is believed to have primarily used Rattanamala powder together with Maha Sopf Mongkhon powder, a sacred substance derived from an advanced esoteric practice that he had mastered. According to legend, the creation of this Maha Sopf Mongkhon powder was extremely difficult. The creator had to write and erase sacred powder formulas according to various numerical ratios, each ratio symbolically representing the virtues of the Buddha and different deities. These powders were believed to possess protective qualities and great spiritual power. Having mastered this sacred knowledge, Luang Pu Iam combined these special powders with medicinal herb seeds and resin powders, then mixed them with natural lacquer before pressing the material into molds. In some cases, the amulets were simply coated with lacquer, while others were coated and then dipped again in lacquer to form an additional protective layer enclosing the sacred materials. Most Phra Pidta amulets by Luang Pu Iam are found with a fine and smooth texture, although examples with a coarser texture can also be found. A consistent and notable characteristic is the aged appearance of the lacquer and herbal seeds, which commonly exhibit a soft reddish-orange hue visible in nearly every piece. The overall surface appearance conveys a sense of firmness and softness that is pleasing to the eye.