Influence of Lankavamsa Buddhism Appearing in Lanna Buddhist art

Abstract

The objectives of this doctoral thesis were (1) to investigate the history of Lankavamsa Buddhism, (2) to examine Lanna Buddhist art, (3) to analyze the influence of Lankavamsa Buddhism, and (4) to present evidence regarding the influence of Lankavamsa Buddhism on Lanna art. This thesis is a piece of qualitative research focused on documentary research by examining multidisciplinary studies of Buddhism, art history, and Lanna art. The information about Lanna's artistic style was analyzed and synthesized using comparative data. The findings indicated that Lankavamsa Buddhism was introduced to the Lanna region through many instances, spanning from the establishment of the empire until Lanna Buddhist art reached its pinnacle of development during the 21st century, influenced by Lankavamsa Buddhism. The architecture method used in constructing the chedi, the form of the chedi, and the design of Lanna Buddha statues distinguish them from those of other Lannan historical periods. A relation between the shape and proportions of the Lankan statue clearly distinguishes the characteristics of Lanna Buddhist art that Lankavamsa Buddhism influenced from those of other art forms. As a result of undergoing the creative process, Lanna's way of life was modified until it became a distinguishing characteristic of Lanna's art.