The evolution of Thai patterns

Abstract

Thai pattern is a pattern that has evolved, unfolded and developed throughout the ancient times. Considering all patterns discovered in Thailand, it is sorted in various eras as follow: Dvaravati, Lopburi, Sukhothai, Chiang Saen, U-Thong, Ayutthaya, Rattanakosin, and contemporary Thai art, etc. The patterns found often start from imitating the characteristics of nature such as vine patterns, floral patterns, numerous vegetation patterns, including several types of animals. They were all used as models for Thai craftsmen in the past to imitate nature. The painters have also applied each model to create beauty by mixing it with personal imagination resulting in a unique model of each era. Thai models can be divided into 4 groups: 1) A direct imitation of nature group which consists of Dvaravati and Lopburi eras 2) An applied imitation of nature group which refers to Sukhothai, Chiang Saen, and U-Thong eras 3) An applied designs unfolded from nature which are in Ayutthaya and early Rattanakosin 4) A creative pattern group which unfolds to create a unique identity in the late Rattanakosin and contemporary Thai art. Patterns appearing in each era have always been imitated and borrowed from each other. Some patterns have something in common, there may be slight differences in rhythm, style, or proportion. Therefore, the Thai models found in Thailand were created by the craftsmen who beheld the beauty of nature, hence imitated and expressed through a simple line, such as a curve. Later, they started drawing and mixing them with their imagination. They applied what they saw and adapted it into various models, until they became part of the Thai identity.