Analysis of the Patterns and Inscriptions of Buddha Image Board (Phra Phaeng Maii) in Lampang Province Using Semiotic Theory

Abstract

This article is part of the research on Buddha Image Board (Phra Phaeng Maii): Creation and Conservation Processes. This research used a mixed-method research method consisting of 1) documentary research, 2) fieldwork to collect material data and interview people, and 3) action research. For this article, the objective is to analyze the symbols appearing Lanna Buddha Image Board (Phra Phaeng Maii) in Lampang Province according to the symbolism concept of Charles Sanders Peirce. Study on the issues of similar forms, indicator forms and symbolic forms, the indicative pattern and the symbolic form. The conclusion is as follows: Lanna Buddha Image Board (Phra Phaeng Maii) are panels of wood that are decorated with Buddha images in an orderly manner. In Lampang Province, there were 69 panels found, 16 of which were inscribed. They were built from the beginning of the 22nd - 26th Buddhist century. The study found that the most popular style of castle-shaped arches was the wooden panel Buddha images, which were also found in the form of ancient arches, frame-shaped arches, front-shaped arches, and palace-shaped arches. The result of the analysis according to 1) the semiotic theory of Charles Sanders Peirce can be concluded that there are 2 types of similar forms: 1.1) Buddha amulets use symbolic forms of the Buddha and 1.2) wooden panels for decorating Buddha amulets, which convey the Buddha’s residence. 2) The indicative pattern appears in the decoration of many Buddha images on wooden panels, conveying the stories of the many Buddhas of the past. 3) The symbolic form appears in the wishes at the end of the inscription, reflecting the beliefs about Sri Ariya Maitreya (the second disciple), dedicating merit to the gods, Indra, Brahma, Mother Earth, reaching nirvana, dedicating to the deceased, and the three kinds of happiness.