Reflection of Khukhan Society in the City-Building Era: A Case Study of the Mural Paintings at Lamphurampaniwat Temple, Khukhan District, Sisaket Province

Abstract

              This article examines reflections of urban society in the formative period of Khukhan City as represented in the mural paintings at Wat Lamphuramphaniwas, Khukhan District, Sisaket Province. The murals were completed in 2022 and are currently in a well-preserved condition. The study begins with an analysis of primary and secondary sources. The mural paintings reflect the living environment of people within the historical Khmer–Lao–Thai cultural sphere, depicting elements such as the Grand Palace, stone sanctuaries, sacred images, dwellings, architectural structures, transportation, animals, and various plant species. Social groups portrayed include the king, members of the royal family, nobles, commoners, forest-dwelling Khmer slaves, and Buddhist monks. Relationships among these social groups are represented in two forms: cooperation and conflict. In addition, the murals reflect key social institutions, including governance and religion, as well as cultural traditions such as ways of life, household utensils, clothing, weapons, royal ceremonies, customs, rituals, beliefs, modes of transportation, draft animals, and social problems, including internal conflicts within the royal court and threats arising from royal warfare.

               The findings reveal that the narrative depicted in the murals begins with the establishment of the Preah Vihear Sanctuary and concludes with the enshrinement of Phra Kaeo Neramit in the city, along with images of five rulers of Khukhan. Khukhan City society is shown to have been primarily agrarian, yet characterized by a complex social organization formed through long-standing relationships among its people. The forest-dwelling Khmer maintained connections with the Siamese elite of the Chao Phraya River basin while preserving their local identity. These elements together provide a concrete portrayal of Khukhan City society during the period of city formation. Furthermore, the findings are beneficial for studies in related disciplines and may serve as foundational data for further analytical research.