There is a deep and rich history behind the artisan tradition of forging Lao Jewelry. Luang Prabang, the region in Northern Laos where Lao Jewelry creation began, contains a mix of contemporary and French colonies, beautifully blending 20th century European architecture and the more traditional Lao structures.
Luang Prabang was the capital of the Kingdom of Laos all the way up until the cival war in the mid-20th century. The artisans and craftsmen actually worked under the patronage of the royal family, giving them authority and the ability to push their creativity. The influence within the design is of Chinese origin, and the Chinese have always had a particular talent for sculpting in silver, hence the reason for the look and material of this fascinating jewelry. Not only do the traditions of China impact the designs but there are clearly inspirations from India and Tibet.
The jewelry traditionally was part of a bride’s dowry and symbolizes that the wearer is from a high status within the community. It was even used as a form of currency, which carries through today with traders in the region preferring and placing a high value on silver pieces and jewelry.
In the video below, artisans demonstrate the intricate process behind Lao Jewelry making:
The Buddist influence is also in the art, with the use of the dok phikoun flower. This blossom symbolizes longevity and good luck. This was limited to the royal family for a long-time so the popularity grew after it became available to high society.
After the civil war, many of Luang Prabang’s artisans moved to the capital of Vientiane for a fresh start and to distance themselves from the Royal Family. They had gone to war with the Siamese, who plundered Vientiane in the 1800s and wasn’t rebuilt until the arrival of the French at the end of the 19th century. The French, with their love of art and culture, rebuilt and restored the city including the temples. This approach lead to Laos becoming a mecca for the artisan and eventually the culturally and art capital of Laos.
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