the zenophilia series image gallery

Short background to Lanna Art.

Northern Thailand used to be remote from centres of powers such as Ayutthaya 
and Bangkok in the central plains region. 
City states were established, eventually forming a federation known as Lanna, 
with its distinctive style of culture.      It has 4 periods :
Establishment of the Kingdom (1261-1355 AD), 
Prosperity period (1355-1547 AD), 
Burmese Colonial State (1558-1774 AD) 
Thai Colonial State (1774-1939 AD).

The Art (style) pervades domestic and religious expression through many media. 

It has been perpetuated by families of artisans, the major centers of which were/are :
Chiang Mai (13th-20th centuries AD),
Chiang Saen (14th-18th centuries AD),
Chai Prakarn and Fang (15th-18th centuries AD),
Nan (14th-19th centuries AD),
Haripunchai (14th-18th centuries AD),
Phrae and Lampang (15th -18th centuries AD)
Phayao (15th-18th centuries AD).

Thus, Chiang Mai is the only remaining center for Lanna Art production.

For example teakwood carving   click here 

i went to view koi carp and catfish, but was arrested at the entrance.
It was around December 2528 BE., and the air was humid, hovering in the shadow 
of Chiang Mai's mighty Doi Inthanon. 
i removed the empty Pepsi can thoughtlessly discarded on top of the trunk,
stood back, and stared in awe.
i took 2 fast shots, lest the inspiration disappear before my eyes.

Here was an incredible example of Lanna Art, both for for its concept and content.
- encompassing death and rebirth. Far greater than the sum of any descriptive words,
it seemed to flow from the soil, carving itself and the rooted trunk back to life. 
A kind of visual koan. 
Something to see forever, but to understand only by looking away. 
A form of organic magic, set off by the pink spots of flower, 
A kaleidescope reflection of Tao., resplendent and timeless.
Mmmm ..... A show of Zen in a Theravada society.?

i looked away to set off home, turned the front doorkey simultaneously.

i am still under arrest, 
but got to see the  koi  another time..

                                                                                                                                                                          
Peace and respect to you.                              
©2004 bob harbinson