Thread: Memory Lane (In my own language)

Photography made its journey into Siam in the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV; 1851-1868). Back then it was very less known to public.

The popularity increased with time and became wider known in the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and rapidly onward.

Though very popular but, at the same time, it was very expensive. At first, only people in the Royal family could enjoy. Later on, the cost became less expensive, yet still expensive, and more people could enjoy; noble ranking families, rich families and etc. These were people from high class society which we call them in Thai as "hi-so people".

Because such new thing was rare and expensive, once paid for it, they all wanted the best outcome. To make the best outcome, they had to look best in front of the camera.

Historians seem to enjoy the anonymous models posed in these photos which were taken over 100 years ago. It is fun to check, not only how fashionable their costumes were but also, ornaments such as various kinds of sashes, jewelries, pendants, badges and etc. and try to tell who they were, how noble, how rich and etc. they were in the high society.

These are some of them:



(These two couples are different in status. While the ones on the right are definitely husband and wife, the ones on the left were mother and son)








(You already know this lady on the left...)