“Living History” at the “Sunthorn Phu Museum” in Wat Thepthidaram

During the Songkran festival, I had the opportunity to visit Wat Thepthidaram and pay respects to the monks. While there, I couldn't resist stopping by the Sunthorn Phu Museum, which showcases the works and personal belongings of the renowned Rattanakosin poet. The museum offers a glimpse into the life of Sunthorn Phu during his time as a monk at Wat Thepthidaram.

Sunthorn Phu, the preeminent Thai poet and a global literary figure, composed numerous works while residing as a monk at Wat Thepthidaram. Centuries later, all individuals associated with this site have vanished into the annals of time. The Sunthorn Phu Museum serves to revive Sunthorn Phu's literary legacy, breathing life into his words once more.

A half-length portrait of Sunthorn Phu, when he was still a monk, is enshrined in the Never-Ending Inspiration Room.

The Sunthorn Phu Museum was originally the kuti (monks' quarters) where Sunthorn Phu resided during his time as a monk. Today, Wat Thepthidaram Warawihan Temple houses Sunthorn Phu's personal belongings in this kuti. In 1986, on the 200th anniversary of Sunthorn Phu's birth, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared him an outstanding figure in world culture for his literary contributions.

This Sunthorn Phu Museum showcases the works, life, and lifestyle of the Rattanakosin Era poet in three rooms:

Room 1: Endless Inspiration

This room showcases the life and works of Sunthorn Phu against the backdrop of early Rattanakosin history, spanning the reigns of Rama I to Rama IV. It also features a bust of the poet during his time as a monk, serving as a lasting tribute.

Tracing the Scribe of the Universe: Unveiling Sunthorn Phu's Life Journey in the Civilized Era of Siam

Room 2: Wisdom of the Gemstone

Room 2: Mani Pannya

Characterized by a love of learning, keen observation, and a passion for travel and new experiences, Mani Pannya embodies the spirit of open-mindedness in a time of societal transformation. This room reflects the multifaceted aspects of society through the literary works of Sunthorn Phu.

Visitors can also enjoy and have fun experimenting with composing poems in the style of Sunthorn Phu, including various forms such as "klon," "kap," "kholong," and "nira." These challenges are designed to test the abilities of visitors.

Room 3: Under the Shade of the Kasawapatra Tree

Room 3: Under the Shade of the Saffron Robe

This room showcases the personal belongings of Sunthorn Phu during his time as a monk. These include his alms bowl, palm-leaf manuscript holder, oil lamp, bed, table, and various wooden cabinets, all meticulously preserved.

Preserving and collecting the belongings of Sunthorn Phu during his time as a monk.

Various utensils used by Sunthorn Phu during his ordination at this temple.

This museum offers a captivating and lively experience, showcasing the works and life of Sunthorn Phu. It seamlessly integrates his creations with the lives of the people who were influenced by them, making it an enjoyable and insightful visit.