An Investigation of Naga Art in Buddhist Temples of Mueang Chiang Mai District, Thailand

By : Ya-Liang Chang

Page No: 153-171

Abstract
The importance of Naga art has two aspects; firstly, in terms of the research value, Naga is an important design element in Buddhist temples in Thailand. It is particularly seen in architectural decoration and ornaments, yet little research has been done on Naga. Secondly, Naga art of Northern Thailand also has local characteristics. Buddhist temples are important places for observing Buddhist art. Chiang Mai was the capital of the Lanna Kingdom from the 13th century CE; accordingly, there are important Buddhist temples in abundance in the old town. In other words, the Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai are significant representative of Lanna culture. This study involved field research, recording Naga arts in 34 Buddhist temples of the Mueang Chiang Mai District, aimed to explore the characteristics of Naga art in Northern Thailand. The results of this research show that the Naga art of Northern Thailand has local characteristics, as revealed by their motifs, shapes, patterns, and so on.

Author :
Ya-Liang Chang
Associate Professor,
College of Fine Arts,
Huanggang Normal University,
China