Concepts and Styles of Stupas in Mae Hong Son Province During 14th-20th Century

Abstract

This study focuses on the concepts and styles of stupas in Mae Hong Son province from the 14^th to the 20^th century. The objectives of the study were 1) to present the concept of dividing Mae Hong Son art and 2) to study the concept and belief of building stupas in Mae Hong Son from the 14^th to the 20^th century. The result shows that Mae Hong Son’s art history is categorized into pre-modern, modern, and post-modern periods. This allows for a structured analysis of the evolution of artistic styles and cultural influences over time. Moreover, the researcher employs a combination of field surveys, in-depth interviews, and a cultural landscape framework to examine the concepts and construction of stupas in Mae Hong Son. The findings show that various artistic traditions, including Lanna, Mon, and Burmese art influence the pagodas in Mae Hong Son. This suggests a rich cultural exchange and the integration of diverse artistic elements in the region’s architectural heritage. The study also emphasizes differences in beliefs related to pagoda construction across different periods and geographical.