The Origin and Development of the Pattern of Acanthus Leaf in Thai Art

Abstract

This research is aimed to study the patterns of Acanthus leaf in Thai artworks produced during Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin periods in terms of their origin and development as well as the artist’s techniques in applying Acanthus leaves to various forms of Thai artworks. Data was collected from historical documents, photos and archaeological sites; the patterns of Acanthus leaf found were compared to those in Western  artworks.

                  Findings revealed that Acanthus leaf first appeared in Ayutthaya period, particularly in the reign of King Narai the Great when Ayutthaya had close contacts with Western nations. Having a rough appearance, the pattern of Acanthus leaf was widely used to decorate the pediments of Western style buildings. In Rattanakosin era, in the reigns of King Rama III and King Rama IV, the pattern of Acanthus leaf was more similar to  Western patterns. In the reign of King Rama V, the pattern was authentic Western art, made by Western artists working for the Royal Court of Siam. The pattern of Acanthus leaf in this period was used to ornament several forms of artworks, particularly the pediment and capital decoration.

                  In using the pattern of Acanthus leaf for decorative purposes, both Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin master artisans used similar techniques. They adapted Acanthus leaf patterns to traditional Thai patterns or cut off some details to make them in an appropriate shape before combining with traditional Thai patterns such as Floral motifs or Kankhot (Vine Pattern).