Revival of Yan Lipao Basketry by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother played a vital role in supporting the revival of the yan lipao basketry, a handicraft made from the vine of the yan lipao plant in the fern family that grows profusely in southern Thailand. Yan lipao wickerwork products were famous during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), and they slowly faded from popularity in later times. It became increasingly difficult to find skilled craftsmen, as the production process is quite complicated. 

Not until Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother changed her annual residence to Daksin Palace in Narathiwat Province and chanced upon the yan lipao vine, would the once-famed style of basketry begin to find a new life. Considering yan lipao another part of the national heritage that must not be allowed to disappear, Her Majesty initiated a yan lipao weaving group in Narathiwat. Teachers were brought from Nakhon Si Thammarat to provide training. Yan lipao weaving became a skill also taught at the SUPPORT Training Center within Chitralada Villa. Then an old handicraft has seen a new revival.

Today yan lipao has proved to be an ideal material for ladies’ handbags, and a wide selection of shapes, sizes, and patterns are found to be suitable for many occasions. The products have become widely popular, and are regarded as stunning, exquisite items admired by all the world.

Source: PR Thai Government
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