The Value of Naga Buddhist Art that Appears in the Royal Monasteries of Nan Province

Abstract

The purpose of this research article was: 1) to study the history of Naga Buddhist art in Thailand; 2) to study Naga Buddhist art that appears in the Royal Monasteries of Nan Province; and 3) to analyze the value of Naga Buddhist art that appears in the Royal Monasteries of Nan Province. This research employed a qualitative approach, using documentary study. The data were analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

The research revealed that: 1) Naga Buddhist art had its roots in the culture and beliefs of Buddhism since ancient times, influenced by the religion and art of India. Naga art appeared in various forms, such as sculptures, architectural art, and decorative patterns in temples.
2) Naga Buddhist art in royal monasteries in Nan Province, such as Wat Phra That Chae Haeng, Wat Chang Kham Worawihan, Wat Phaya Phu, and Wat Bun Yuen, had used Naga elements in their architecture, such as the construction of Naga stairs, the use of Naga on the pediments of the temple or chapel, and the decoration of Naga on the archways and pillars of the chapel. 3) The value of Naga Buddhist art in royal monasteries in Nan could be categorized into five aspects: (1) moral value, as the Naga symbolized protection of Buddhism and key Dhamma principles; (2) belief value, reflecting faith in the Naga’s sacred power; (3) artistic value in architecture, painting, and sculpture through local wisdom and external influences; (4) Value in cultural traditions: The appearance of the Naga in traditions and rituals, such as the Naga procession in the Hok Peng tradition or in various religious ceremonies; and (5) historical value in expressing local identity, community power, and history.