The Traditional Creation of Chiang Saen Buddha Amulets

Abstract

This academic article aims to study and analyze the process of creating Bodhi Tree–Sheltered Chiang Saen votive tablets. The findings indicate that these votive tablets were produced using molds, resulting in the widespread creation of similar forms. Their production served religious purposes, including offerings for Buddhist worship, ritual practices, and merit-making activities, based on beliefs in spiritual merit. The creation of such votive tablets was conducted on auspicious occasions and led by kings, monks, members of the royal family, nobles, or patrons of high social status.

The experimental reconstruction employed traditional techniques, using termite mound soil for mold-making and open-fire firing, with lead used for casting the votive tablets. The results demonstrate clarity of form and structural completeness, reflecting traditional craftsmanship and local wisdom embedded in the production of Chiang Saen votive tablets.