Portrayal of Cosmos based on Traibhumi Literature on the Tripitaka Cabinets from Ayutthaya Period to the Creation of 3D Lacquer Work Painting

Abstract

This article aims 1) to examine picture of cosmos based on Traibhumi literature on the Tripitaka cabinets from Ayutthaya period housed in Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, 2) to create a 3D lacquer work painting of cosmos, and 3) to analyze the created painting. This is a creative research beginning with examining the pictures of cosmos on the Tripitaka cabinets; then, the pictures are used as the model for 3D lacquer work painting. Finally, the finished work is analyzed in different aspects and the findings are as follows.

The pictures of cosmos on the Tripitaka cabinets were made by employing lacquer work technique. The composition and details of the pictures agree with the story of the Traibhumi literature, but only some parts of the story are taken to create the pictures on the cabinet doors.

            The procedure of 3D lacquer work painting creation consists of 3 main processes: lacquer work production, patterning by using pointed tools, and epoxy coating. For the coating process, two materials are required: 1,094 gold leaves and 9 kg. of epoxy resin (with a ratio of 2:1; A = 2 and B = 1) for 15 layers of coating.

The finished work, which is the output of 3D lacquer work technique, displays a picture of cosmos sized 101 X 70 cm. It displays better perspective and dimension and it is touching resistant. However, there are some disadvantages including being weightier, taking longer time to produce, and reflecting incident light.