Manual on Elephant-Riding Attire, National Library Edition

Abstract

The academic article titled “Manual on Elephant-Riding Attire Edited by
the National Library” was studied and compiled from manuals related to elephant-riding attire. These texts fall under the category of zoology and are preserved in the manuscript and inscription collection of the National Library of Thailand. There are four manuscripts in total namely; Phra Tamrab Nung Pha Khi Chang (The Royal Treatise on Elephant-Riding Attire), Tamra Nung Pha Khi Chang Waduai Withi Nung Pha Khi Chang (Manual of Elephant-Riding Attire: On the Method of Wearing Cloth for Elephant Riding), Tamra Khi Chang Waduai Kon Nung Pha Khi Chang (Manual on Elephant Riding: Concerning the Technique of Wearing Cloth for Elephant Riding), and Tamra Nung Pha Khi Chang (Manual of Elephant-Riding Attire).
The Manual on Elephant-Riding Attire Edited by the National Library can be categorized into seven content groups namely; content describing the names and methods of wearing elephant-riding attire used by the Elephant Department, particularly for ceremonial riding with decorative display and enticing maneuvers (Phat Phan Lo Phaen), content describing the names and methods of attire worn by ministers when accompanying royal processions for diplomatic or state entertainment events, standing in ceremonial formation to support the end of the ceremonial tethering rope (Chueak Phaniat), and participating in the royal elephant bathing ritual (Kachenthrathsawatsanan), content detailing the sizes and methods of wearing Phra Phusa Wilai Phat (Pha Ton or a garment ceremonially bestowed by the monarch for official use in royal duties and processions), content describing the names and methods of new styles of attire designated exclusively for royal ritual practitioners performing the Phra Khotchakam ceremony (royal elephant rites), content outlining the names and techniques of tying cloth in four different styles, content describing nine matching combinations of wearing and tying attire styles, content explaining two specific styles of wearing attire that prohibit tying the cloth, allowing only the use of a Rad Takhot (a waistband or belt-like fastening). In terms of synthesizing the methods of wearing attire for practical application, the uses can be classified into three main categories: attire for aesthetic purposes at ceremonial or public events, attire designed for comfort and secure fit while sitting on various types of elephant mounts, and specialized forms of attire for specific purposes.