In Thailand it would be uncommon if someone were to not be in possession of one, and sometimes you will even find collectors. These little figurines are often resembled after different Buddhas or Hindu gods and serve different purposes. Protection, prosperity, fertility...etc They are one of the unique aspects of Thailand. You can find these being sold at temples in brand new condition in their glass casing, or sold on the street in varied condition and casings.
Of a personal belief, the ones on the street are far more interesting. I saw a few men with literally hundreds of little wood and stone and gold icons all splayed out over a mat. I honestly wonder where he ever came across that many. But the more surprising thing is that he was not the only one! There were many Thai men with similar spreads. And among them all were the shoppers who wandered between vendors with a little glass eye piece determining the worth of these small tokens. I cannot personally look between one and another and tell which was better but it was fascinating to see.
If you are ever in need of so luck I would stop by a vendor and select one. They are about 20-30Bhat on the street and perhaps 300-400 at temples. Though the ones found on streets are often in pre-loved conditions and lacking of casing and you have to wonder if there is any luck still in them to give?
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