THE ARTISTIC IDENTITY OF HISTORICAL SITES IN LOPBURI : A DESIGN APPROACH FOR CONTEMPORARY SOUVENIR JEWELRY

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates the artistic identity of the Narai Ratchaniwet Palace in Lopburi Province, Thailand, to develop design principles for contemporary souvenir jewelry that reflects and preserves cultural heritage.

Method: A mixed-methods approach was employed, including semi-structured interviews with five experts in design and cultural heritage, as well as analysis of 19 purposively sampled photographs of architectural motifs and artifacts from the palace. The analysis focused on three dimensions: pattern characteristics and structure, compositional arrangement, and symbolic meaning.

Results: The findings reveal that floral motifs are the most dominant (68.42%), followed by geometric (57.89%) and sacred/religious patterns (52.63%). These motifs are often arranged symmetrically and repetitively, emphasizing balance, divinity, and natural order. Expert interviews confirmed that these artistic features embody Lopburi’s cultural richness and suggest their suitability for reinterpretation in contemporary jewelry design.

Conclusion: Narai Ratchaniwet Palace’s artistic elements demonstrate a unique fusion of Thai and Western aesthetics that can be translated into meaningful and aesthetically pleasing jewelry designs. These elements embody not only visual beauty but also historical and spiritual significance.

Implication: The research contributes to the field of cultural product development by offering guidelines for translating traditional artistic identity into contemporary design. It also supports cultural tourism and the sustainable use of local heritage by fostering emotional and cultural connection through wearable art.