Rian Maha Barami "Gourd" (seated self-image holding a gourd / น้ำเต้า) copper medal consecrated by Kruba Boonchum Yanapanyo in B.E. 2539 (1996). A nearly 30-year-old early-batch piece from Northern Thailand's most celebrated living forest master, certified by Thai amulet competition judges (Certificate of Honor No. 1513-197351, 4th place). Includes two premium cases. One piece only, USD $150.
1. What Is the "Rian Maha Barami Gourd"?
This medal depicts Kruba Boonchum in seated meditation, holding a gourd (น้ำเต้า / Nam Tao). In the Lanna (Northern Thai) spiritual tradition, the gourd is a sacred vessel symbolising the gathering and bestowal of celestial blessings, the driving away of misfortune, and the extension of life and vitality. An amulet showing a master holding a gourd carries both his personal meditative merit and the ancestral Lanna symbolism of the gourd — a double layer of spiritual power considered especially potent for protection and prosperity. The "Maha Barami" (Great Perfections) series was cast specifically to commemorate Kruba Boonchum's exemplary monastic virtue. This B.E. 2539 (1996) edition is among his earliest and most sought-after batches.
Key Facts
- Type: Round self-image commemorative medal (เหรียญรูปเหมือน)
- Sub-type: Maha Barami — Gourd (ถือน้ำเต้า)
- Material: Copper (เนื้อทองแดง)
- Master: Kruba Boonchum Yanapanyo (ครูบาบุญชุ่ม ญาณสังวโร)
- Year: B.E. 2539 (1996) — nearly 30-year-old early-batch piece
- Competition: Certificate of Honor, No. 1513-197351, 4th place — Thai Amulet Enthusiasts Association
- Cases: Gold crystal-set oval case + black-stripe oval case (both included, with bails)
- Stock: One piece only
2. About Kruba Boonchum Yanapanyo
Kruba Boonchum was born on 5 January B.E. 2508 (1965) in Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai Province, Northern Thailand. He ordained at age 11 and by age 13 had already earned a devoted following across Northern Thailand, the Shan State of Myanmar, Laos, and the Sipsongpanna region of Yunnan, China — a geographical reach extraordinary for any monk, let alone one still in his teens. "Kruba" (ครูบา) is the highest Lanna honorific for a monk of exceptional virtue, equivalent to a senior Phra Ajahn in Central Thai Buddhism. Kruba Boonchum undertakes intensive solitary cave retreats every Rains Retreat season; one famously lasted more than three years, during which he emerged only to accept food offerings. He is among the rarest of contemporary Thai masters: a monk whose influence crosses four countries, who remains active, and whose amulets continue to be eagerly sought by collectors across Southeast Asia.
3. Blessings of the Gourd Amulet
- Klaew Klaad (Danger Evasion): Deflects accidents, injuries, and sudden adversity — a favourite of drivers and frequent travellers
- Health and Longevity: The gourd is a traditional Lanna symbol of vitality and extended lifespan
- Warding and Protection: Ancient Lanna incantations repel negative energy and malevolent forces
- Prosperity and Luck: Opens the way for favourable opportunities and financial flow
- Mentor Support: Attracts helpful people and positive circumstances
- Mental Clarity: The meditative stillness of a cave-retreat master is said to quiet the wearer's mind
4. FAQ
Q: Is Kruba Boonchum still alive?
A: Yes — as of our last update, Kruba Boonchum is one of the rare living Lanna masters. This means amulets from his earlier batches (like this B.E. 2539 piece) carry the additional rarity of being "vintage" pieces from a living master's early period, which serious collectors value highly.
Q: What does the competition certificate prove?
A: The Certificate of Honor was issued by an independent Thai Amulet Enthusiasts Association competition panel. Judges evaluate authenticity, condition, and craftsmanship against dozens or hundreds of submitted pieces. A 4th-place ranking means this piece passed rigorous multi-expert scrutiny — a stronger authentication than a standard provenance certificate.
Q: The medal is nearly 30 years old — what condition is it in?
A: Copper amulets develop a natural dark-brown patina (包浆) over decades, which is both expected and desirable — it is one of the key markers experts use to confirm age and authenticity. The medal is sealed inside a premium metal case that protects it from further oxidation.
Q: Are both cases included?
A: Yes — the gold crystal-inset oval case and the black-stripe oval case are both included with this single piece, both with bails fitted.
5. About This Piece
- B.E. 2539 (1996) early-batch piece — nearly 30 years old with natural copper patina
- Original Thai Amulet Competition Certificate of Honor (No. 1513-197351, 4th place) included
- Gold crystal-set oval case + black-stripe oval case, both with bails
- Price: USD $150
- Stock: One piece only — will not be restocked
- 10× refund guarantee if found inauthentic
Last updated: 28 May 2026 | Curated by: Merit Messenger Team (Bangkok-based)
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