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

G.R. Lambert & Co. made this photograph of the interior of Wat Pra Keo Temple in Bangkok. The temple, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is located in the Grand Palace, the royal residence. This image offers a glimpse into the cultural and political landscape of Siam, now Thailand, during a period of modernization and engagement with the West. The photograph not only showcases the temple’s ornate decorations and sacred objects but also reflects the power and prestige of the Siamese monarchy. The temple's architecture and decoration blend traditional Thai motifs with influences from neighboring cultures. The photograph captures the intersection of religious practice, royal patronage, and artistic expression within the context of 19th-century Siam. Further study of this image would require delving into archival sources, historical accounts, and studies of Siamese art, architecture, and cultural history. By examining the photograph through this historical lens, we can better understand its significance as a window into a complex and dynamic society.