Creation of Lanna wooden Buddha panels

Abstract

The research on the creation of Lanna wooden Buddha panels used a mixed-method research method, consisting of documentary research, action research, and creative research. The objectives are: 1) to study the knowledge about Lanna wooden panels according to Buddhist beliefs; 2) to analyze the styles and symbols of Lanna wooden panels; 3) to create and evaluate wooden panels.

The results of the study of 300 wooden panels found that the oldest was built in 2194 B.E. and the newest was built in 2566 B.E. The wooden panel framed arch style was most commonly found, followed by the ancient arch and the Wiman arch style. The least common styles were the Praram arch, the Ruean Kaeo arch and the Mondop arch styles. The symbols on the wooden panels include the Buddha amulets, which represent the Lord Buddha. The wooden panels used to decorate the Buddha amulets are like a perfumed chamber. The decoration of many Buddha amulets on the wooden panels represents the many Buddhas and the merits they have accumulated and the floral patterns, the royal decorations, the Chulamani pagoda, are a symbol of worship of the Buddha, and the zodiac patterns are a symbol of dedication of merit.  In addition, the wooden panel also represents the support of Buddhism for 5,000 years, the rebirth of Lord Sri Ariya Maitreya, the three kinds of happiness, with Nirvana as the ultimate goal, and the extension of life.  The creation of all 10 panels is the result of the synthesis of knowledge through the collaboration of people in the community. The evaluation results are at a very good level.