LIMITED BOX SET “MAHOTHORN DEVI 2018 ” BY SOMPOP BUDTARAD

One of the seven Songkran goddesses, daughters of Thao Kabin Phrom, who are known for their filial devotion. According to the legend of the Songkran goddesses, when Thao Kabin Phrom lost a riddle contest to Dharmakumara, he honored his promise to behead himself as an offering. However, if his head were to fall onto the earth, it would set the world ablaze; if left in the air, it would cause drought; and if dropped into the ocean, it would dry up the seas. Therefore, he instructed his seven daughters to bring trays to receive his head, then carry it in a procession circling Mount Meru each year. This is the origin of the Songkran goddess tradition. Each goddess has a different name, weapon, and vehicle depending on the day. Each year, the goddess corresponding to the day of Maha Songkran is honored.

“Mahothorn Thewi”, the Songkran goddess for Saturday, is named Nang Mahothorn. She wears a garland of Samahao flowers, adorned with sapphire (nilarat) jewelry. Her food offering is venison. In her right hand she holds a discus, and in her left, a trident. She travels mounted on a peacock.

The artist Somphop Butraj, in collaboration with Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA Bangkok), created a limited-edition canvas print series titled “Mahothorn Thewi.” The works are produced using high-quality inkjet giclée printing, featuring acid-free and lignin-free materials certified for long-term preservation. Each piece is individually numbered and personally signed by the artist.

“…This Songkran goddess painting series is inspired by cultural art traditions. It transforms beliefs and understandings into modern artworks that people can easily access. The depiction of deities and celestial beings is rendered in a realistic style. Prince Narisara Nuwattiwong has influenced my work. The costumes highlight the human form beautifully and are not intended to be indecent in any way…” Sompop Budtard