Ancient Art in Thailand  

Aside from the prehistoric age, the ancient art of Thailand is primarily religious in nature. Sculptures of Hindu and Buddhist deities have been unearthed in the region, dated from as early as the 4th or 5th century AD. Although they originated from India or Sri Lanka, Thailand’s indigenous people like the Mons and Khmers also developed their own localised art styles as well, from the 7th century onward. The different types of styles were named after the concurrent occupying forces in the area, for example the Dvaravati, Khmer-Lopburi, Sukhothai and Ayutthayan kingdoms. Thai ancient art includes mural and manuscript painting, temple architecture, ceramics, coins and sculpture.

This pathfinder serves as a guide to help you to source for information on ancient art and architecture in Thailand available at National Library Board libraries as well as on the Internet.

Compiled by Alicia Yeo. For further assistance, please ask the staff at the Information Counter or email us at ref@nlb.gov.sg

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