Ban Phon: Phrae Waa

"Kham Muang district, Kalasin province, northeastern Thailand.
H.M. Queen Sirikit was enchanted with the phrae waa-distinctive silk brocade shoulder cloths- Phu Tai villagers wore when Their Majesties visited this ethnic group in Ban Phon in 1977. Learning that phrae waa was disappering and wishing to preserve it, She established a SUPPORT Foundation weaving group, shown meeting with Her Majesty in the historic photograph. The success of this effort is evident in the 2010 photographs, which show modern phrae waa on the loom and Phu Tai villagers of all ages still proudly wearing it."
QSMT Photo 4.2-2