Thai Traditional Art Gold on Black Buddhism Painting, "Golden Bodhi Spiral"

Elegantly wrought in gold and silver on midnight black, heart-shaped leaves flourish on a spiral branch. Saisunee depicts a golden pipal tree, a variety of fig tree that grows in India. Buddha achieved enlightenment while meditating beneath such a tree, which became known as a bodhi, or "enlightened" tree. Three silvery leaves add contrast.