Khon in all its majesty

To celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s 82th birthday and to honour Thailand’s long-standing cultural heritage, Central has joined with Siam Commercial Bank to organise “The Royal Khon: Wisdom of the Kingdom” exhibition, which runs until Sunday at Central Chidlom and Central Embassy. 

One of the highlights is the display of classical dance costumes and jewellery.

Weeratham Trakulnganthai, of the Royal Khon committee for costume production, says the meticulously adorned costumes have developed through time. 

“It is so refined and gorgeous strictly according to traditional Royal Khon performance. We have tried to make the structure and silhouette practical and convenient for modern times, but the colour and prints remain the same as in the old days,” he adds. “The difficult part is the delicacy of the costume’s decorations, which requires time, attention to detail, and concentration depending on the complexity of the patterns. We have revived old patterns such as Pung Kao Bin Kan Yek, Rachawat, produced at Surin and Nakhon Si Thammarat, then embroidered in Angthong.”

Some of the rare pieces in the exhibition include “Pa Krong Thong Tak Ta Chun” which is seen in the performance of “Prommas”. It is a reflection of true Thai culture from the Ayutthaya period. The gold fringe is very special, like a fishing net. Decorated with gold thread, it is sometimes appliqueed with beautiful, colourful beetle wings.

“Some of the dresses takes months or a year to finish. While some patterns we have to study in temples. Now it is very hard to find artists to produce khon costumes, but we must carry on,” Weeratham notes.

“Other highlights include introductory dances and selected scenes from the Royal Khon. These will be performed every Saturday and Sunday during the exhibition period, starting at 5pm.”