Artistic elements of the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall: Arts and beliefs about the monarch
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Abstract
The artistic elements of the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall embody popular beliefs about the monarch. First, the hall’s name refers to Tusita Heaven, the abode of Bodhisattvas, reflecting the common belief that kings are Bodhisattvas who have been reincarnated to perform good deeds before returning to heaven. The throne hall’s structural components include traditional Thai-style architecture with multi-tiered roof decorations, multi-coloured ceramic roof tiles, and tall spires. These reinforce the belief that this throne hall is a high-status building and an appropriate heavenly residence for kings regarded as Bodhisattvas in Theravāda Buddhism. Additionally, the throne hall contains objects like the royal throne, which rests on a gradually tapering high base with the sculptures of animals in the Himavanta Forest, and mural paintings that portray deities in the attitude of paying respect. These sacred objects represent ideas and meanings that amplify the monarch’s long-held sacrosanctity. The Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall is an important venue for various royal ceremonies directly connecting to the monarch from the moment of coronation until the King’s death.
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