Luang Pu Iam's Phra Pidta from Wat Saphan Sung
Wat Saphan Sung in Nonthaburi Province is the birthplace of the famous Phra Pidta amulets by Luang Pu Iam, which are also part of the renowned Benjapakee set made from powder mixed with lacquer.
Luang Pu Iam created the first batch of Phra Pidta amulets made from powder mixed with lacquer around the same time as Somdej Wat Rakang amulets (circa 1867 CE). These Phra Pidta amulets have very similar molds but can be distinguished into Tapab, Chaluad, Phanom Mue, and double-sided molds. Some are also stored in sacred containers. The most popular are those made from powder mixed with lacquer, while other materials exist but remain controversial.
These powder-lacquer amulets are coated with black lacquer or clear lacquer mixed with red pigment on both front and back. The surface generally shows small red specks on almost every piece, and some are gilded. Most of Luang Pu Iam's amulets have seams on the sides, and due to the lacquer coating mixed with red pigment, the surface often cracks or flakes. The sacred powder from these Phra Pidta amulets is renowned for its powerful properties of great popularity and protection, comparable to the Phra Pidta amulets of Luang Por Kaew.