Nang literally means skin or hide; in common usage, a drama puppet or drama; by extension, motion picture films. "Nang Yai" specifically means "large shadow puppet". It is a high art form that originated the beginning of the fifteenth century CE. Nang yai performances were a popular means of entertainment during the Ayudhaya period and are mentioned in a poem called Bunnovat Khamchan written by the Buddhist monk Mahanag sometime around the years 1751 to 1758 CE, at the end of King Boromakot's reign.
Nang yai (Thai: หนังใหญ่) is a form of shadow play found in Thailand. Puppets are made of buffalo hide, while the story is narrated by songs, chants and music.