Thai architecture

I was looking for the 2002 joint issue of Sweden and Thailand, depicting royal palaces, which I needed because it was engraved by Slania. The Thai half of this set depicts the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall in Bangkok, a stunning 18th century building in a crucifix form.

When I received it, it came with another set, depicting Thai architecture. Again from 2002, it is a set depicting Thai temples. The architecture, but also the design of stamps, is so beautiful that I just had to share it with you.

On the first 3 baht value we find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This is the Royal Chapel which was initiated by King Rama I, the first king of the Chakri Dynasty. 

The second 3 baht value shows Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalarm, better known as Thailand’s first public university. It is a centre of Thai knowledge but it is also known for its beautiful mural paintings.

On the 4 baht we find the Temple of the Dawn. This used to be the Royal Chapel, in the Thon Buri period, in the second half of the eighteenth century. The first light of dawn actually reflects off the surface of the temple, hence its name. It is world famous for its stupa or prang, or pagoda, or spire, or whatever you’d like to call it, which contains Buddhist relics. 

Finally, we have the 12 baht, illustrating the Marble Temple, which was commissioned by King Chulalongkorn. The main chapel was completely built from white Carrara Italian marble.

The set shows how stamps could (should?) showcase a country’s heritage. It makes such an issue so much more valuable than just bunging roses or fishes (to mention just a few other Thai issues from 2002) on a stamp.

So well done, Thailand, for showing the world that even modern stamps can be beautiful and worthwhile!

See yous later

Adrian