A new exhibition in Bangkok gives a humorous account of how the nation has dealt with its excrement over the years
A new exhibition called "Tales from the Loo" at the Museum Siam gives us a no-detail-too-intimate look at how Thailand has handled its poop though the ages.
Showing until April 17, the exhibit features several displays dealing with everything from the evolution of the toilet to its adoption in Thai society to the various devices used to 'wipe' -- including coconut husks and of course the much-loved 'sprayer' that can be found beside most Thai toilets today.
Staff at the museum say the curator put together the unusual exhibit to highlight the fascinating role toilets have played in Thai history over the years, demonstrating both cultural diversity and class divisions in society.
Here’s a quick look at some of the displays in the exhibit.
Reminding us that poop is funny, a motion-sensor on this ancient stone toilet makes a farting noise when visitors squat over it. Classy.
Outhouses for monks: This style of latrine was adopted from Sri Lanka around 700 years ago when the Sukhothai kingdom embraced the Sri Lankan branch of Buddhism as the state religion. It was so innovative that Thai monks did not waste any time adopting it for their own temple grounds.
Outside view of the monk's loo. Nearby is a display highlighting the royal loo, which explains that Thai people adopted the Hindu notion of the God-King -- the king was a reincarnation of Lord Vishnu. This led to a multitude of rituals, customs and ceremonies pertaining to both the king’s public and private functions. "There was no exception even for his defecation session!" says the museum.
From the late 19th century, free public outhouses like this could be found throughout Bangkok. Though basic and rudimentary, it was viewed as a mechanism for building a civilized nation. Instead of going to the fields or to the piers as before, Siamese people would do their business in a more systematic and hygienic manner.
In the main entrance of the Siam Museum, a giant roll of toilet paper welcomes visitors.
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