Traditions and Culture - Thai Mask

Thailand Stamps – Tradition and Culture – Thai Mask

Deeply set in the Traditions and Culture of Thailand is the Thai classical dance form known as Khon. Khon performances, in which the demons traditionally wear Thai Masks called Khon Masks,

portray stories from the Ramakien which is based on the great Indian epic, the Ramayana. Khon is an extremely stylised form of dance which has changed very little over the years. The performers remain silent throughout the performances but a commentary is usually given from side stage although most Thai people know the stories by heart and have their own favourite demon.

It can take up to 10 years for dancers to learn all the intricate movements in the Khon dance and with over 100 characters in the Ramakien, the making of the Khon Masks is a skillful and painstaking art. The masks are usually made from tissue paper made into a papier mache and elaborately decorated with paint, gold leaf and coloured glass although the better masks can be encrusted with real gem stones.

Thai Masks feature on 2 sets of Thailand Stamps. The 1st Series was issued on 10th June 1975 and depicts the Khon Masks for Tosakanth, Kumbhakarn, Rama and Hanuman. The 2nd series was issued on 1st July 1981 and shows the masks for Ongkhot, Maiyarab, Sukrip and Indrajit.

TOSAKANTH	KUMBHAKARN
RAMA	HANUMAN

ONGKHOT	MAIYARAB	SUKRIP	INDRAJIT