| Type of monument |
: Type II Temple (Kundaung Pauk Gu) |
| Location |
: East of Chaukphala |
| Region |
: Nyaung U & Wetkyi-In |
| Built by |
: Narapatesithu |
| Date |
: 13th Century |
| Monument Number |
: 147 |
Thetkyamuni temple is situated at Chaukphala,
in Nyaung U region. The temple appears to have been built in
early 13 century A.D. The complex provided Thetkya and Kondogyi
were built at the 12th century on a platform dominating
Ayeyarwaddy.
It is a square structure with a porch projected on one side.
Above the main square block are three receding terraces on which
stands the sikhara and a stupa finial. The flame-like arch
pediments over the the doorways, the pilasters and friezes are
adorned with stucco carvings. The interior walls are covered
with panels, of painting which depict scenes from the life of
Asoka, Convenor of the third Buddhist Council and of the
introduction of Buddhism to Ceylon.
They are two small temples very harmonious and equipped with
pretty paintings of time. Wall paintings represent the former
lives of Buddha or Jatakas in particular in the hall on the
walls and the vaults. Paintings reflect conventions of the 12th
century and represent scenes of the Indian everyday lifestyle.
It is considered that the animal representation of Thetkyamuni
is the most important of any temples in Bagan. The animal
representations include pigeons, corbels, peacocks, parrots,
hares and elephants. In the hall, there are 28 Buddha images are
drawn. The cornices are painted geometrical reasons. Between
North and the south, the walls are painted of the 550 Jatakas,
while in the West one can admire a whole of 16 Buddhas including
six in large scenes.
LAYOUT PLAN
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