Khongkharam Temple, Ratchaburi Province, Value of Tangible Cultural Capital and Direction for Promoting the Temple as a Learning Center of Mon Culture in Thailand

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Sirot Pinanratchathon

Abstract

          Wat Khongkharam has served as the center of a large Mon community in Ratchaburi province since the early Rattanakosin period. Within the temple complex are a number of artworks that are related to Mon culture such as Mon-style pagodas, mural paintings on the interior walls of the ordination hall and pavilions, a 9-roomed, Thai-style monk’s residence, and a folk museum; all of which are tangible cultural capital invaluable in historical, aesthetic, academic and social aspects. Those artworks constitute a body of knowledge essential for the development of Wat Khongkharam as a learning center of arts and culture of the Mon people in Thailand based on art history approach which emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge and understanding on the basis of academic foundations.

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References

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Interviewees:
Phra Anuwat Lokawit. Khongkharam Temple, Ratchaburi Province. 17 January 2017.

Phra Sang-wan. Wat Don Krabueng Temple, Ratchaburi Province. 10 March 2012.