Buddhist Storytelling in Thailand and Laos
Book Description
Buddhist Storytelling in Thailand and Laos invites readers into the vibrant world of sacred narrative art, where ancient wisdom comes alive through stunning visual storytelling. This comprehensive exploration centers on the magnificent painted scrolls of Northeast Thailand and Laos that bring the Prince Vessantara story to life, a beloved Buddhist tale of ultimate generosity and spiritual transformation.
At the heart of this study lies a remarkable 31-meter scroll housed in the Asian Civilisations Museum, presented here in its complete glory alongside comparative artwork from related scrolls. Through rich, full-color illustrations, readers witness how these extraordinary artistic creations serve as more than mere decoration—they function as sacred vessels that carry profound spiritual teachings across generations.
The authors skillfully examine how these scrolls integrate into the Bun Phra Wet ceremony, revealing the intricate dance between visual art, ritual practice, and spiritual belief. This ceremonial context transforms the viewing experience into something far deeper than aesthetic appreciation, offering insights into how communities have preserved and transmitted Buddhist wisdom through creative expression.
For those drawn to understanding how spiritual traditions manifest through art and ceremony, this volume provides a unique window into the living practice of Buddhism in Southeast Asia. The interplay of text, image, and ritual demonstrates how sacred stories continue to guide and inspire communities, making ancient teachings accessible through the power of visual narrative.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~5 hours)
📄 Length: 178 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Asian Civilisations Museum (Singapore)
- ✓ Explore Illustrations
- ✓ Explore Tipiṭaka
- ✓ Understand Buddhist philosophy and practice
- ✓ Explore Sacred books
- ✓ Explore Pictorial works
- ✓ Explore Rituals
- ✓ Explore Buddhist illumination of books and manuscripts
