Ancient Sukhothai - Thailand's Cultural Heritage
Dawn F. Rooney


This guide covers the history and art of the early Kingdom of Sukhothai, which was situated in the fertile Yom River basin of north-central Thailand and is renowned for artistic achievements in the mid-13th and 14th centuries. Influences from earlier inhabitants of the area and neighbouring kingdoms were overlaid with Theravada Buddhist ideas from Sinhalese culture to create a unique style that is recognized today as ‘classic’ Thai art. Beautiful remains of this period can be visited at Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai to the north and Kamphaeng Phet to the southwest. Lotus-bud spires, delicate stucco decoration, pillared foundations, huge Buddha images encased in niches and secluded forest monasteries atop surrounding hills testify to the original expression of Sukhothai artisans.

The author takes the reader on a journey to 80 temples at Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai and Kamphaeng Phet as well as highlighting masterpieces from three museum collections. In addition, there is an extensive reading list, helpful travel information, a comprehensive glossary and index.