Symbols and Narratives from Chinese Shrine Mural Painting

A Case Study in Bueng Phra, Mueang, Phitsanulok

Abstract

This paper aims to study auspicious symbols and narratives from the mural paintings in Bueng Phra Chinese Shrine. The study found that the mural paintings can be divided into 2 categories which are Chinese auspicious symbols and narratives from Chinese famous stories. The Chinese auspicious symbols can be grouped into 3 groups, 1) Plant symbols include trees, flowers, fruits and vegetable; 2) Animal symbols include birds, terrestrial animals, aquatic animals, and mythological creatures, and 3) Miscellaneous symbols which are the combinations of divine symbols or other items into new meanings. The narratives can be grouped into 3 groups, 1) the narratives from Chinese classical literatures and tales, 2) the narratives from historical tales, and 3) the narratives from religious beliefs.