A 274-Year-Old Historic Map at Kunawong House Museum: A Rare Treasure of Southeast Asia

At Kunawong House Museum, one of the hidden gems among museums in Thailand, visitors can explore a rare historic map that’s over 274 years old—a remarkable piece in the museum’s private collection.

This map was created in 1751 during the reign of King Borommakot (r. 1733–1758) of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. It depicts the boundaries and major kingdoms of 18th-century Southeast Asia, including Siam, Tonkin (Vietnam), Pegu (Bago), Ava, and Arakan (Rakhine). The map was produced by Jacques-Nicolas Bellin, a prominent French hydrographer and Chief Cartographer of the French Navy, who played a crucial role in creating maps for the French royal court and maritime explorations in the 18th century.

This historic map was published in “L’Histoire Générale des Voyages” (Volume 9), a global travel history book compiled by Abbé Prévost, a French clergyman and writer known for chronicling voyages and explorations from around the world.

Today, this valuable map is displayed in the “Heritage Tea Room” inside The Residence, a special exhibition space at Kunawong House Museum. The room also features traditional Thai art and crafts, showcasing over 800 years of cultural evolution through rare and meaningful works.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history lover, or a curious traveler, Kunawong House Museum offers a unique journey into Thailand’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. Don’t miss the chance to experience one of the most distinctive museums in Thailand.