Flags for collectors and history enthusiasts.

Flag Spotlight

History and Use

Time Period: The elephant flag was officially adopted in 1916 and was used until 1932, when the country transitioned to a constitutional monarchy, leading to the adoption of the current flag design featuring horizontal stripes. Kingdom/Ruler: The flag was used during the Rattanakosin Kingdom under King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), who reigned from 1868 to 1910. His reign was marked by significant modernization and reforms in Thailand.

Design and Symbolism

Design: The flag typically featured a white elephant on a red field. The white elephant was a significant symbol in Thai culture, representing royal power, purity, and good fortune. Symbolism of the Elephant: In Thai culture, elephants are revered animals and have a deep connection to the monarchy. The white elephant, in particular, is considered sacred and is often associated with royalty. It symbolizes power, strength, and dignity. The appearance of a white elephant in the flag underscored the divine nature of the king's rule.

Variations

Different Variations: There were various designs of the flag featuring the elephant. Some versions included more intricate details or different shades of color, but the most recognized version had a simple design with a prominent white elephant.

Transition to Modern Flag

In 1932, following the Siamese Revolution, Thailand adopted a new flag that features red, white, and blue horizontal stripes, symbolizing the nation, religion, and the monarchy. The change reflected the shift towards a constitutional monarchy and modern identity, moving away from the royal symbols of the past. The elephant flag is a significant part of Thailand's historical identity, illustrating the country's rich heritage and cultural values associated with monarchy and national pride.

The flag of Thailand that featured an elephant was known as the "Kingdom of Siam Flag" and was used primarily during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and the early years of the 20th century.

Images in this post were taken from scandasia.com

Attributions/Source

On 4 July 1907, King Rama V of Siam (Thailand) at the time visited Skagen, where he planted a flag with an elephant motif on Grenen. Photo: North Jutland’s Coastal Museum.