The Thai Constitution, in Thai known as Ratthathammanoon. The charter is written in a folded book, reminiscent of bai lahn, Buddhist manuscripts (fig.) that contain religious writings, including the Buddhist Law or Dhamma. This book is placed on top of a gilded phaan, i.e. a bowl or dish with a base or foot (fig.), which in turn is placed on another, somewhat larger, phaan. These three objects have become symbol for the Constitution and is found on the Democracy Monument (fig.), and as an emblem on Government House, etc.

See POSTAGE STAMPS (1), (2), (3), (4) and (5).

The book is of a golden colour and topped by a Garuda (fig.), the official Emblem of State. On the side it has three white dots, applied with wet talcum powder by a Buddhist monk as a traditional blessing, and referring to the Triple Gem. The Thai Constitution was conferred on 24 June 1932 by King Prajadhipok.

MORE ON THIS.