Tai Yawng Tripitaka Hall in Lamphun Province: Case Study of Architectural Style and Its Evolution

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify the characteristics of architectural and decorative arts of Lue that appear in the Tripitaka Hall, which was built by the Yawng craftsmen in Lamphun Province, by drawing comparisons with Lue arts that appear on religious sites in Mong Yawng and Kengtung in Eastern Shan State, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, People's Republic of China and Luang Prabang township, Lao People's Democratic Republic.

The results of the study reveal that Tai Lue arts in Lamphun Province clearly appeared in the Tripitaka Hall built in the 19th century. The architecturally unique style of the Lue arts, such as shed roofs and stacked roofs, were found in the Yawng art of the Pratu pa - Ban Luk and Mae Tha - Mueang Chi craftsman groups respectively.  As for the decorative arts of the building, the Lue style was found in the Yawng art of the Pa Sang, Pratu Pa – Ban Luk and Mae Tha – Mueang Chi. Architecture and Building decoration art of the Lue art that were found in Lamphun Tripitaka Hall are a reproduction of popular ideas from Lue Eastern Shan art group rather than replication from the original style. In addition, these Lue arts have influenced the local decorative arts offering the development into the typical style of each area.