This “Monastery of the Lion” was constructed in 1345 to enshrine the ashes of King Kham Yu, the 6th ruler of Chiang Mai. In 1367, the Phra Singh Buddha was installed in the Viharn Lai Kham, so the temple was given its present name. This is the finest site for classic Lan Na style [ Tai Yuan ] art and architecture.
Although the temple fell into disrepair in the 18th century, it was renovated in the early 19th century. Later in 1929 the bot and the ho trai were renovated, and another viharn was constucted. A few years ago, some cosmetic renovation was undertaken on the stucco and gilt work of the buildings. The Viharn Lai Kham is the wat’s major attraction. Constructed in traditional teak it is a beautiful example of Lanna or northern Thai architecture, with its low walls and winged three-tiered roofline. The portico has very finely carved gables. Lai Kham refers to the “gold-patterning” of the highly decorated façade that magically catches the eastern morning light. Inside the viharn, realistically painted murals on the walls document the daily life of the people of Lan Na in the 19th century. Other murals depict fables of the jataka story.
Although the temple fell into disrepair in the 18th century, it was renovated in the early 19th century. Later in 1929 the bot and the ho trai were renovated, and another viharn was constucted. A few years ago, some cosmetic renovation was undertaken on the stucco and gilt work of the buildings. The Viharn Lai Kham is the wat’s major attraction. Constructed in traditional teak it is a beautiful example of Lanna or northern Thai architecture, with its low walls and winged three-tiered roofline. The portico has very finely carved gables. Lai Kham refers to the “gold-patterning” of the highly decorated façade that magically catches the eastern morning light. Inside the viharn, realistically painted murals on the walls document the daily life of the people of Lan Na in the 19th century. Other murals depict fables of the jataka story.
No comments:
Post a Comment