Sukhothai Sukhothai is considered to be the first true Thai kingdom. Today many Thais view the Sukhothai period as the golden era of Thai history, an ideal state, a land of plenty, governed by just and paternal kings who ruled over peaceful, contented citizens. Wat Mahathat completed in the first half of the 13th century lies in its present day natural setting, the greatest of the Sukhothai wats, and Wat Saphan Hin, to the west of the city, in the forest, containing a 12.5 meter high Buddha image with its hand raised in the attitide of 'giving protection', both clearly illustrate the 'Sukhothai Style'. Wat Mahathat, bathed in candlelight for the Loy Krathong Festival. Wat Mahathat is a splendid example of the Sukhothai Style. In its day it was the 'magical and spiritual centre of the kingdom'. Wat Saphan Hin - Monastery of the Stone Bridge

Temple Ornaments These images from the National Museum at Bangkok and the Ramakamhaeng National Museum at Sukhothai show the Sukhothai style as developed within the Buddhist Wats of the period. 1. Stucco decoration from the base of the stupa at Wat Pra Pai Luang 2. The elegance of the Head of Budda 3. The Harihara, showing the early Sri Lanka influence 4. A Naga (divine serpant protector) roof decoration 5. A three headed Naga roof decoration 1. Stucco decoration 14th/15th century 2. Head of Buddha 14th/15th century 3. Harihara 14th/15th century 4. Naga 14th/17th century 5. Three headed Naga 14th/17th century

Works of Art These images from the Ramakamhaeng National Museum at Sukhothai show further examples of the Sukhothai style. 6. An underglazed Sangkalok Bowl 7. Sangkalok Jars 8. Lime Jars 6. Sangkalok Bowl 14th/17th century 7. Sangkalok Jars 14th/17th century 8. Lime Jars 14th/17th century

Home