Tempelcomplex van Wat Pra Keo (Tempel van de Smaragdgroene Boeddha) in Bangkok c. 1870 - 1900

This albumen print by G.R. Lambert & Co. shows the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok, Thailand. The Temple, or Wat, is arguably the most important in Thailand. The visual codes in this image – the towering spires, the intricate carvings, and the imposing scale – speak to the power of both the monarchy and the Buddhist religion in late 19th century Siam. Photography at this time was still a relatively new technology, and its use in documenting architecture and cultural sites reflects the growing interest in preserving and studying historical monuments. It also demonstrates the influence of European colonial powers in Asia, as photography was often used as a tool for cataloging and understanding foreign cultures. Images like this served to shape Western perceptions of Siam. To fully understand the nuances of this image, we can consult archival records, travel accounts, and studies of Siamese history and culture. Through such research, we can better appreciate the complex social and institutional forces that shaped its creation.