Thai Arts Masters: Royal Thai Figurines

Thai PBS and Thailand Foundation proudly present “Thai Arts Masters”, where we explore the stories of master craftsmen from all across Thailand.

In this episode, we explore the “Royal Thai Figurines”. Sculpted from clay, these tiny dolls were once toys among Thai royals. They reflect the longstanding tradition of respect and appreciation for nature that is fundamental to Thai craftsmanship. Here, the humble clay is given form and dashed with colors, becoming lively figures with exulting charm.

We travel to Ang Thong Province to visit Ban Bang Sadet, a community that has inherited this tradition. Meet Master Ruji Wijitranurak to learn of how an encounter with the queen has forever transformed her community. Today, the figurines no longer act as mere toys, but have been elevated to artistic representations of the Thai way of life.