The Kon mask production centre in Bangkok

Posted by admin on May 25th, 2009 filed in Day trips, Shopping, Sightseeing

Khon is a part of traditional Thai theatre in which the actors wear a mask known as Kon heads (Hua Khon). Usual performances feature scenes from the Buddhist Rammakien, Thailand’s fascinating version of the mythic epic.

For decades the Khon mask production has been carried on by the Thai well-known artist, Louis Yongkiewsod. All of his family members were puppet performance and khon actors who created and maintained their own costumes.

When modern entertainment became more popular than the traditional theatre performances, the family changed the production process’ goal to manufacturing khon masks, selling them as decoration, souvenirs and cultural gifts.

For about three decades, 69 year-old Mrs. Sangad Rodpai has been creating Kon masks. It takes about three days to complete one mask. Depending on the design, the price will be between 850 and 1,200 baht.

The Centre of Khon mask making is opened daily from 08:00 to 18:00 and can be found in Bangkok’s Bansue District on Prochachun Road, Tel: 662 585 7693.