Mihrab of Tonson Mosque: Muslim Identity through Thai Traditional Art

Abstract

Mihrab of Tonson Mosque can be dated back to late Ayutthaya period. Being an Islamic art, this mihrab, however, reflects various identities of the muslims through Thai traditional art. The interesting feature about the mihrab of Tonson Mosque is it perfectly applies Thai traditional art within Islamic art principle. For example, the crescent and star symbol of muslim on pediment referred to how sacred and significant of Islam, Jabal Rahmah or Mount of Mercy were displayed as stupa. Or Thai mythology was adapted to present history of the wooden plate of the mihrab. All mentioned above were derived from the positive view of the muslims on Thai traditional art. They realized that Thai traditional art was so grand that suits to be served their religion, Islam.