HISTORY AND RELIGIOUS ARTS OF KHAO THAMORAT IN SI THEP HISTORICAL PARK PHETCHABUN

Abstract

Research report on the history and religious art of Khao Thamorat, Sri Thep Historical Park, Phetchabun, aims to 1) Study the history and background of Khao Thamorat, 2) Study the Buddhist art of Khao Thamorat, and 3) Analyze the Buddhist art of Khao Thamorat. This is a qualitative research conducted thru literature review and interviews with 37 key informants. The research found that: Khao Thamorat is a long history predating the establishment of the city of Si Thep. It is characterized by a solitary mountain, visible from afar, made it a landmark for travelers. It was designated as a sacred area according to the belief in the cosmic realm, which influenced the orientation of religious sites built in the area. Khao Thamorat began to play a significant role in the city of Sri Thep after the 12th Buddhist century. Buddhist art within the Thamorat cave is in the form of sculptures carved into the cave walls. It includes standing Buddha statues on lotus flowers in both two-handed and one-handed teaching poses, seated Buddha statues, Bodhisattvas, carved Dharma wheels, and stupas, All of these are the Dvaravati style. The religious art was influenced by the art of the Dvaravati period in the central and northeastern regions, as well as Khmer art. The body parts of the Buddha and Bodhisattva were carved to like women, with oval faces, proportionate eyes, noses, and lips that did not appear fierce. The robes were thin and unwrinkled, covering both standing and sitting figures. The Bodhisattva stood slightly tilted, with hair styled in layers and adorned with a crown, a style popular in Khmer art. The blend of Theravada, Mahayana, and Hindu art created an identity, resulting in the art of Sri Thep.