Popular Post webfact Posted June 10 Popular Post Share Posted June 10 Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Controversy has erupted in Chiang Mai over the restoration of a 400-year-old giant statue at Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham, a prominent historical temple in the northern Thai city. Governor Nirat Pongseethithaworn, who coordinated the restoration efforts with the Fine Arts Department, defended the project's necessity, but some academics argue the restoration improperly altered the statue's historical integrity. The debate was ignited by Surachai Jongjitngam, an assistant professor at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Chiang Mai University. He lambasted the recent covering of the ancient Lanna-style giant sculpture with new plaster, likening it to turning a historic relic into a modern replica. The original statue, although damaged, was largely intact and served as a rare example of Lanna art, notable for its distinct features, which differ from Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin art found in the capital, Bangkok. “Lanna giant sculptures in such good condition are seldom seen and are crucial for studying this unique form of art,” noted Surachai. "Covering the ancient plaster with new material effectively erases its historical character and value." Governor Nirat clarified the intentions behind the restoration. He cited a visit to the temple in early April last year, during which he noticed the damaged statues. Inspired by tourists' comments on the neglected state of these artefacts, he reached out to the Fine Arts Department, known for its expertise in historical restoration. The project, completed several months ago, was overseen by the temple's abbot under Nirat's direction. Assistant Professor Surachai acknowledged the good intentions behind the restoration efforts but argued that the execution missed the mark. “While the Fine Arts Department's intentions were not wrong, the methods chosen did not respect the historical context of the statue,” he said. This incident spotlights the broader challenges of preserving ancient artefacts. It emphasises the importance of balancing modern restoration techniques with a deep respect for historical authenticity. The heated debate underscores the necessity for specialised expertise and careful decision-making when dealing with priceless historical objects, to ensure they remain true to their origins while being preserved for future generations. -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe 1 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Gottfrid Posted June 11 Popular Post Share Posted June 11 I think that is the, by far, most bad restoration of an antique and ancient item ever made. 2 4 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tropicalevo Posted June 11 Share Posted June 11 (edited) 15 minutes ago, Gottfrid said: I think that is the, by far, most bad restoration of an antique and ancient item ever made. Some contenders for that title? But you may be right. https://12tomatoes.com/worst-art-restorations-ever/ Edited June 11 by Tropicalevo 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gottfrid Posted June 11 Share Posted June 11 3 minutes ago, Tropicalevo said: Some contenders for that title? But you may be right. https://12tomatoes.com/worst-art-restorations-ever/ Thanks! I stand corrected. 🤣 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Crossy Posted June 11 Share Posted June 11 A post which contravenes Aseannow Community Standards has been removed. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hotchilli Posted June 11 Share Posted June 11 From Lanna style giant to an Irish leprechaun... 1 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stocky Posted June 11 Share Posted June 11 Two more awful jobs https://news.artnet.com/art-world/art-history-restoration-fails-1591327 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jchfriis Posted June 11 Share Posted June 11 This surely gives me a lot more confidence in the so-called experts. NOT Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cncltd1973 Posted June 12 Share Posted June 12 that's not a restoration, that's a reinterpretation Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now