Abstract

This research investigates traditional and contemporary approaches of conserving and restoring mural paintings in Buddhist living heritage places in Thailand and Sri Lanka. These highly symbolic paintings enhancing the walls of Buddhist monasteries or stupas are an important aspect of South and South-East Asia’s legacy. Exploring local historical and social contexts highlights how the general epistemological shift that occurred in Thailand and Sri Lanka in the 19th century, acted on the new values associated with ancient monasteries and merged with longstanding social and spiritual relations people maintain toward these recently labeled living heritage sites.