RANG RANAAD EEK WRIGHT JEEKHUY FOR BANG KHO LHAM PALACE

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) examine the historical development and cultural context of the Ranat Ek trough associated with the Jek Hui artisan lineage of Wang Bang Kho Laem, 2) analyze the structural patterns and components of the Ranat Ek trough, and 3) synthesize the artisanal identity and traditional knowledge embedded in Thai musical instrument craftsmanship. This study employed a qualitative research methodology through documentary research, related studies, and fieldwork data collection using in-depth interviews with three experts in Thai classical music and the Jek Hui artisan lineage. Data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive synthesis.

The findings revealed that 1) the Ranat Ek trough associated with the Jek Hui artisan lineage of Wang Bang Kho Laem developed in relation to the cultural context of Thai court music during the reign of King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) and reflected the artistic and cultural values of the Thai elite in the past; 2) the structural patterns and components of the Ranat Ek trough demonstrated distinctive artisanal characteristics, including a gracefully proportioned body, finely curved decorative finials, precisely inlaid edging made from ebony and mokman wood, lion-based pedestal legs in the Phan Waen Fa style, and silver hooks used for suspending the bars, all of which reflected the integration of artistic craftsmanship and musical functionality; and 3) the artisanal identity of the Jek Hui lineage embodied Thai traditional knowledge in woodworking, fine arts, and musical aesthetics. The identified structural pattern subsequently became a significant prototype for later developments in Ranat Ek design, contributing to the preservation and advancement of contemporary Thai musical instrument craftsmanship as a valuable cultural and academic heritage.