Textile Motifs in Phitsanulok: An Analysis of Meaning and Beliefs

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the meanings and beliefs of textile motifs in Phitsanulok province using a descriptive research method. Field data were collected from 5 groups of textiles in Phitsanulok province through in-depth interviews and group discussions. The total number of fabric patterns found in this study was 109. The meanings can be categorized into 7 types: the meanings related to plants (39.47%), the meanings related to objects (29.82%), the meanings related to animals  (20.17%),  the meanings related to nature and the environment (7.89%), and the meanings related to human characteristics, actions, and status (0.88 %).There were 14 patterns that display beliefs: beliefs about happiness was most found (20%), beliefs about prosperity and progress (19.62%), beliefs about auspiciousness (14.72%), beliefs about fertility (7.16%), beliefs about success and intelligence (6.42%), beliefs about charm (6.04%), beliefs about power and respect (5.66%), beliefs about unity (4.15%), beliefs about good health and long life (4.15%), beliefs about wealth (3.02%), beliefs about luck and fulfillment (3.02%),  beliefs about fortune (2.65%), beliefs about regulation (2.26%), and beliefs about fame (1.13%). These woven fabric patterns display good meanings and beliefs resulting in an increase in value, leading to a creative economy in Phitsanulok Province.