National Artist Chao Thawee Boonkhate Dies at 94
Renowned National Artist Chao Thawee Boonkhate, founder of Thailand's first folk museum and a master bronze craftsman, has died at 94. He spent decades preserving traditional Thai casting techniques and supporting underprivileged students t
National Artist Chao Thawee Boonkhate, founder of the Thai Bronze Casting Workshop and Chao Thawee Folk Museum, has passed away at age 94.
Chao Thawee Boonkhate was born on October 9, 1932, in Phitsanulok Province. He completed his primary education at three schools in Phitsanulok. Growing up in a family where his father was an art teacher and craftsman, he learned drawing and carving from an early age. After completing secondary education, he worked as a painter in Bangkok and other provinces to expand his knowledge and experience.
In 1955, he entered military service with the Third Region Army and was promoted to the rank of Senior Sergeant Major in 1963, serving for 23 years total. During his military career, he applied his artistic skills to various government projects. When the Third Region Army needed skilled craftsmen to create a monument of King Naresuan the Great, he was selected for advanced training in sculpture and metal casting at the Department of Fine Arts under renowned Thai art masters.
After his training, he returned to create the bronze statue of King Naresuan, which led to further commissions including the casting of Buddhist images. His Buddha Chinraj casting received royal endorsement and became celebrated for its beauty and precise proportions, earning him recognition as a master craftsman of the Phitsanulok artisan tradition.
In 1978, he retired from military service to establish the Thai Bronze Casting Workshop (Chao Thawee), dedicating himself to preserving and teaching casting and sculpture techniques. Beyond his professional work, he founded the Chao Thawee Folk Museum, Thailand's first folk museum, which preserves traditional tools and household items reflecting the lifestyle of past generations. He also established the Chao Thawee Boonkhate Foundation to provide educational scholarships to underprivileged students, a commitment he maintained throughout his life.
