By Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles
More than a dozen of Her Majesty's designer ensembles made from hand-woven textiles produced by members of SUPPORT, Her Majesty's charity dedicated to preserving Thai village weaving.
Two-piece Suit (Green) (2000) by Alexander McQueen for House of GivenchyQueen Sirikit Museum of Textiles
Her Majesty Queen Sirikit created the SUPPORT Foundation in 1976 to offer farmers and rural villagers, especially women, a regular supplement to their family income and to provide financial support during times of drought or flooding.
Evening Gown (Blue) (1979) by Pierre BalmainQueen Sirikit Museum of Textiles
An important consequence of this endeavor has been to preserve Thai textile traditions that were in danger of being lost.
Gown (Green-Brown) (1981) by Pierre BalmainQueen Sirikit Museum of Textiles
Although SUPPORT sponsors craft activity in a variety of media, it has been most active in the production of handwoven silk and cotton textiles. Today there are SUPPORT weaving centres throughout Thailand.
Artistry in Silk : The Royal Style of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit
Trousers and open-front skirt of SUPPORT silk ikat (mat mii) from northeastern Thailand; tunic and sash of Thai silk.
Gown (Green) (1979) by Pierre BalmainQueen Sirikit Museum of Textiles
In the late 1970s, with the increasing success of SUPPORT, Her Majesty took the unprecedented step of promoting its weavers in a unique and personal way, creating a new style that fused Western high fashion with village-woven SUPPORT textiles.
Gown (purple-black) (1992) by Erik Mortensen for House of Jean-Louis ScherrerQueen Sirikit Museum of Textiles
This decision was a natural extension of Her Majesty’s desire to instill pride in traditional craftsmanship and encourage both Thais and foreigners to recognize the value of Thailand’s indigenous weaving traditions.
Artistry in Silk : The Royal Style of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit
SUPPORT silk ikat (mat mii); bead and crystal embroidery by the designer.
Three-Piece Ensemble (Pink) (1985) by Erik Mortensen for House of BalmainQueen Sirikit Museum of Textiles
Over the years, both Thai and European designers have created ensembles for Her Majesty’s many public appearances, domestic and international.
Two-piece Ensemble (Red) (1980) by Pierre BalmainQueen Sirikit Museum of Textiles
Her Majesty’s efforts to promote the beauty and excellence of SUPPORT textiles when hosting heads of state at home or representing the country abroad have been so effective that SUPPORT silks are now emblematic of Thai identity throughout the world.
Artistry in Silk : The Royal Style of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit
Jacket of SUPPORT brocade (Khit), fox fur trim; silk chiffon blouse; reproduction skirt.
Two-piece Ensemble (Green) (2007) by YutaphongQueen Sirikit Museum of Textiles
Blouse of SUPPORT silk ikat (mat mii); bead, sequin, metal-thread, and beetle-wing embroidery.
Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles Staff
Advisors:
Mr. Kullawit Laosuksri, Mr. Boonchai Thongcharoenbourngam, Mr. Paothong Thongchua, Mrs. Mayuri Veraprasert, Mr. Weeradhamma Taragoonngernthai, Mr. Sappasit Foongfuangchaveng, Mr. Anucha Thirakanont
Lead Consultants:
Ms. Melissa Leveton, Ms. Dale Carolyn Gluckman, Ms. Julia M. Brennan
Gallery and Facilities Design and Fabrication:
Ms. Nita Yuvaboon, Imrey Culbert LP, Tillotson Design Associates, MGMT design, Innovision, Goppion S.p.A, Royal Goldsmith, Final Cut, Ovation Studio, Plan Motif Vichai Trading(1986)
Photography:
Mr.Anak Navaraj, Mr. Nat Prakobsantisuk
Special Thanks to:
Office of His Majesty's Principal Private Secretary, Bureau of the Royal Household, Office of Her Majesty's Private Secretary, Office of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's Personal Affairs Division, Supplementary Occupations Programme Division, The SUPPORT Foundation, Sirikit Institute, The Crown Property Bureau
Sponsors:
Krungthai Bank
Boon Rawd Brewery Co., Ltd,
The Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand
Mr.Charoen and Khunying Wanna Sirivadhanabhakdi
Mr. Somsak and Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul
