Thai Silk
Tracing it's history to the early Khmer rule the art of handwoven Thai silk has been handed down from mother to daughter for over seven centuries. The patterns, some unchanged, some growing/evolving, hold clues to the ceremonial and religious symbolism from that ancient civilization. Patterns with a range of uses; some as a beautiful work of art to hang on the wall, elegant furniture covering, some would make an excellent choice for elegant evening or casual wear. This durable, heavy silk will wear well in daily use. Not at all like the lingerie material you may think of when you hear the word "silk."
The region was a part of the Khmer kingdom and many Khmer style temples can be found throughout the area. Around the time Chiangmai was being formed Isaan came under the rule of the Lao Lan Xang (one million elephants) empire. The region remained under Lao rule until the 17th century.
Some say the Isaan folk are more Lao than Thai. The Isaan language, similar to Lao, is still spoken in most homes and among locals, but today they are loyal Thai. The area now is renowned among the Thais and many savvy textile collectors as the source of the finest Mudmee (tied strings) or Ikat silk in the world. Anthropologist call this cloth Khmer-Thai or Khmer-Lao Silk. Non-academics today just call it "Thai silk."