The Kingdom of Siam: The Art of Central Thailand, 1350-1800
Forrest McGill and M.L. Pattaratorn Chirapravati
"The artistic accomplishments of Ayutthaya are unfortunately not well known outside Thailand. I am pleased that an exhibition of many wonderful examples of those accomplishments -- in fact the first to focus on the arts of Ayutthaya -- will be traveling to the United State. Equally important is this accompanying publication, in which are contained essays by both Thai and foreign scholars presenting the latest research on and analysis the arts of Ayutthaya, their history, and their profound meanings. I hope the exhibition and publication will bring pleasure and intellectual stimulation to wide audiences, and encourage new interest in and appreciation of our rich cultural heritage." - from the preface by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand

The first presentation of classical art from Thailand shown in the United States in more than 25 years, this exhibition features 87 rare works from collections in Thailand, Europe, and the United States. The works showcase the superb but little known arts of the Thai Kingdom of Ayutthaya -- one of the largest and most important kingdoms in Southeast Asia. The art works --many on view for the first time in the West -- include stone and bronze Buddha images, sculptures of Hindu deities, figural and decorative wood carvings, temple furnishings, illuminated manuscripts, jewelry, and textiles. Among the highlights are gold ceremonial objects from a temple crypt sealed in 1424, a full-sized temple pediment, a 12-foot-tall preaching throne, and sections of royally commissioned temple doors with inlaid mother of pearl.

Price: Bht 1,395.00