Images

"Rustam Discoursing with Isfandiyar", Folio from a Shahnameh (Persian Book of Kings) Author: Ferdowsi Calligrapher: al-Mausili Made in Iran, Shiraz, c. 1303–57 CE

The outer walls of Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha) have 178 mural panels painted during the reign of Rama I (r. 1782-1809 CE). Photo taken 2017 CE.

The current king of Thailand is His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Rama X (r. 2016-present) who is the first king in 69 years after succeeding his father Rama IX (1927-2016 CE).

One of the many mythical creatures and gods that the Thai people believe guard temples in the Grand Place Complex, Bangkok, Thailand. Photo taken 2019 CE.

Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) Bangkok, Thailand viewed from the outer court of the Grand Palace, just inside the Wisetchaisi Gate. Photo shows the white perimeter wall. Wat Phra Kaew was built in 1784 CE to house the figurine...

Temple of Emerald Buddha, Bangkok, Thailand. In Thai it is called Wat Phra Kaew and this photo shows a golden chedi (stupa) outside the temple. Photo taken 2019 CE.

The Temple of Emerald Buddha, Bangkok, Thailand. In Thai it is called Wat Phra Kaew and it was built in 1784 CE. Photo taken in 2019 CE.

Six pairs of giant demon guardians flank all entrances to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok, Thailand. They are known as yaksha or in Thai are simply called yak (giant), and they are Buddhist gods that protect against evil spirits...

The Emerald Buddha adorned with three seasons' regalia. From left to right: Summer, Rainy, Winter. Image compiled 2020.

On the grounds of Wat Phra Kaew (Bangkok) and a one-minute walk from the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is a golden stupa called Phra Siratana Chedi, erected by King Rama IV in 1855 CE to house Buddha relics. It is a bell shape on a circular...