A Layered Semantic Analysis of Tibetan Mask Imagery Based on Peirce’s Triadic Sign Theory

บทคัดย่อ

The purpose of this article is 1) to investigate the semantic generation mechanism of Tibetan mask imagery at the iconic level,  2) to analyze the indexical functions of Tibetan mask imagery within ritual and spatial contexts,  3) to explore the cultural coding mechanism of Tibetan mask imagery at the symbolic level, and 4) to construct the superimposed and coupled semantic structure of Tibetan mask imagery based on Peirce’s triadic sign theory. The sample consisted of representative Tibetan masks, including deer masks, charnel ground masks, and guardian deity masks. They were selected by purposive sampling based on their cultural representativeness and symbolic diversity. The instruments for collecting data were document analysis forms and semiotic analysis frameworks. Data were analyzed by descriptive analysis and content analysis. The research results were found as follows:  1) at the iconic level, Tibetan masks construct perceptual recognition through figurative, diagrammatic, and metaphorical resemblance, forming a cross-cultural visual foundation;  2) at the indexical level, masks embed meaning within ritual processes and spatial structures through temporal, behavioral, and contextual indications;  3) at the symbolic level, deep meanings are generated through religious doctrines and socio-cultural conventions, forming a stable cultural coding system; and  4) these three semiotic layers constitute a superimposed and coupled semantic structure that jointly produces the complete meaning of Tibetan mask imagery.