Portret van Rama V van Thailand 1868 - 1875

Wilhelm Burger captured this photograph of Rama V of Thailand sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. The image offers a glimpse into the complex social and political landscape of Siam during a period of intense modernization and Western influence. The photograph itself, a relatively new technology at the time, becomes a tool for constructing and disseminating the image of the monarchy. Rama V is depicted in traditional attire, laden with symbols of royal power and authority. But the very act of commissioning a Western photographer like Burger reveals a desire to engage with and project an image of modernity. During his reign, Rama V initiated reforms that touched every aspect of Siamese society, from the military and legal systems to education and infrastructure. A closer examination of archival materials, such as royal decrees and diplomatic correspondence, can provide a richer understanding of the social and institutional forces that shaped both the photograph and the era it represents. Ultimately, the photograph of Rama V is a testament to the power of images in shaping perceptions of power and progress.