Thailand. History and treasures of ancient civilization

The book discusses the art and culture of Thailand, the ancient history and culture of the modern country known to us is studied. The “Thai land” and "Thailand" are not synonymous, as is commonly believed, since it most accurately reflects the essence of this country precisely the first term. Knowledge of this nuance helps to better understand the unique process of integration, imposing each other and alternating various cultural traditions. These are the traditions of ancient civilizations that have replaced each other for centuries in the same territory. The artistic heritage of these civilizations was perceived and creatively processed by the Thais. This people appear in the political arena since the 13th century, it was this nation that played a decisive role in the unification of the country. But the Thais also inherited the traditions of thousands of years ago and, having developed and processed them, adapted to their life and national philosophy. Therefore, it would be a great error (although at one time it was considered absolute truth) to argue that the culture of modern Thailand is an exclusively Thai culture. It is impossible to ignore its origins, as well as the processes of transformation and synthesis of the art of other nations. Having rethought this art, Thais independently created a unique alloy of artistic traditions, which is now known under the general concept of "Thai culture". From ancient contacts with Indian civilization to the origin of the first Buddhist civilization of Dvaravati, the provincial forms of Khmer civilization and the appearance of the first kingdoms, this book - with the help of the latest historical research, archaeological reconstruction, description and analysis of art monuments - helps the reader understand how the birth of modern Thailand occurred