Abstract:
This thesis studies the transmission of Khon Mask craftsmanship at the
Khon Mask department in the Royal Craftsmen School in the Utestaksina building in
the Grand Palace, Bangkok, and suggests methods for safeguarding this traditional
craft. The study analyzed published papers and available reports, interviewed a
teacher and students of the Khon Mask department: eight people were involved
over a period of ten months.
The result showed that most common technique for transferring
knowledge of Khon Mask craft to students in the Royal Craftsmen School was
a teacher described and demonstrated the process of making masks. Students
observed, memorized and absorbed the demonstration and then practiced what the
teacher demonstrated to improve their skills and experience. The classroom teaching
style was face to face in which was a teacher monitored and guided students
individually. Graduates learned how to make tools and created only one Khon Mask.
At the Royal School, traditional procedures and forms: styles and colors of Khon
Mask faces strictly followed traditional rules for creating Khon masks. However some
materials have been modified over time, for example, natural tree glue (Yang Ruk)
has been replaced by modern chemical glue. However, the inheritance of Khon mask
craftsmanship was included the integrated activities cooperated by schools and Khon
Mask teacher. In conclusion, the teaching of Khon Mask at the Royal Craftsmen
School helps to safeguard traditional craftsmanship by inheriting skills and research.