I love places like this. It's always interesting to see how different countries integrated the teachings of the Buddha into their cultures. Kind of like Jesus; everyone kind of gives him a look that matches their idea of what a perfect holy master should look like.

Of course the Buddha lived 2500 years ago, so no one really knows what he looked like, but it's interesting what different people see as being idea. The chinese, for instance, portray him as being morbidly obese, since that means you're happy and getting plenty of food. (which ironically misses the point of non-attachment, which is the primary point of buddhism)

I think the Thai interpretations are at least more in line with what he probably looked like, if it even matters. But it makes sense, being that Thailand is primarily Theravada Buddhist, which is the closest you can get to the original teachings. I was amazed to find out that there so many practicing Buddhists who never meditate at all (especially Mahayana Buddhists) being that it's sort of the fundamental teaching.

Okay, sorry I'm rambling now. hehe. Nice post dude.