As one of the most beloved animals in the world, cats have been people's quintessential companions for thousands of years.
(Photo courtesy of Fine Arts Department)
Domesticated felines have always played a significant role in human civilisation, no matter where they are.
From now until November, the Ministry of Culture's Fine Arts Department presents "Wilar Wilas: The Journey Of Cats In Thai Tradition", an exhibition that tells fascinating stories about this unique pet.
The illustrative event, organised by the National Library Research and Development Section, aims to share knowledge and information from the library's extensive archive and database with cat lovers and the public.
Other than the global revolution of feline creatures, visitors can learn more about the origins and descriptions of auspicious Thai cat breeds including Siamese, Wichien Maas, Korat, Khao Manee, Ninlarat, Kao Taem and Suphalak.
The exhibition also invites you to discover ancient Thai beliefs, values and customs that are related to cats while getting to know cats in Thai poems and literature and court cats in the Kingdom's royal households.
Modern-day perspectives on cats including the reciprocal-yet-ambivalent relationship between cats and humans, holidays associated with cats and cats in pop culture are also featured.
There's a showcase of rare and antiquarian cat-centric books including the mid-19th century Thai manuscript Tamra Maew.
Games, music and e-media that celebrate cats are available in the technology zone.
The "Wilar Wilas: The Journey Of Cats In Thai Tradition" is held at Vajirayana Room 2-3, the National Library of Thailand on Samsen Road. The exhibition is free to the public and opens from 9am to 4.30pm every day except on public holidays. For more information, call 02-280-9828.
