Buddhist art and governance in Lanna: Phra That Lampang Luang, Lampang Province

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between Buddhist art and governance in the context of Lanna, focusing on Lampang Province, an important city during the Sri Lanna period. This analysis highlights the role of Buddhist art not only as an art that reflects Buddhist faith, but also as an important tool used by the ruling class to reinforce the legitimacy and stability of state power, especially through temples and artifacts such as Buddha images, pagodas, and mural paintings. Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is a case study demonstration Lannaís links between art, religion, and politics. This article also analyzes Buddhist art from a political science perspective, using the concept of ìsoft powerî and the construction of political identity to understand artís role in Lannaís social structure and governance