 |
| Proud photographer |
We had what Peter called traditional 'cow pat' breakfast — kao pad kai (egg fried rice with fried egg on top) at a little cafe that was lined with black and white photos of old Thai film stars and old Phimai before it was 'renovated'.
There was a framed magazine article of the photographer in front of a retrospective exhibition, and we recognised the cafe owner. It turned out he had a professional studio in the fifties, and was proud to have his photograph taken. There was also a splendid collection of old cameras on display.
 |
| Vintage plate camera |
After breakfast we visited Phimai National Museum, which houses the 'treasures' discovered during archaeological excavations at Phimai and other historical sites. The collection includes gold jewellery and bronze ornaments from the Prehistoric period, 2,500-1,500 years old, black Phimai pottery of a similar age, Dvaravati sculpture and art from 7th-11th century CE, and Lopburi art — Khmer art in Thailand (8th-13th century CE).
Before leaving Phimai, we went to Sai Ngam, a banyan grove which spans 1,350 square metres. Banyan seeds germinate in crevices on the host tree, and an inseparable grove develops of twisted trunks and branches. Thais believe that female spirits live in banyans, and there is a decorated spirit house at Sai Ngam, near the original 350 year old trunk.
They have created brick paths and seating areas, and John and Peter found a shady spot to sit and remember the Irish tunes they sang in their youth.
 |
| Spirit house with floral garlands |
 |
| Johnny Mickledoo |
We had what Peter called traditional 'cow pat' breakfast — kao pad kai (egg fried rice with fried egg on top) at a little cafe that was lined with black and white photos of old Thai film stars and old Phimai before it was 'renovated'.
After breakfast we visited Phimai National Museum, which houses the 'treasures' discovered during archaeological excavations at Phimai and other historical sites. The collection includes gold jewellery and bronze ornaments from the Prehistoric period, 2,500-1,500 years old, black Phimai pottery of a similar age, Dvaravati sculpture and art from 7th-11th century CE, and Lopburi art — Khmer art in Thailand (8th-13th century CE).
Before leaving Phimai, we went to Sai Ngam, a banyan grove which spans 1,350 square metres. Banyan seeds germinate in crevices on the host tree, and an inseparable grove develops of twisted trunks and branches. Thais believe that female spirits live in banyans, and there is a decorated spirit house at Sai Ngam, near the original 350 year old trunk.
Superb, thank you, Sharon!
ReplyDeleteMary Mac xxx