The importance of the Ramayana, or Ramakien as it is known in Thailand, is evident in its use for making decisions in daily life as the Ramayana episodes and characters depict archetypal situations in one’s life. Using them as illustrations, the Thais would have predicted their fortunes and acted wisely to avert misfortune. Hand-painted fortune–telling manuscripts such as this were produced up to the late 19th century before printed versions started to be made. This example is painted on both sides in a meticulous style that is considered less lively than earlier versions. By this time, imported synthetic pigments were used which produced a new palette of colours. Manuscripts such as this were commissioned and were also made specially for visiting dignitaries and other foreigners.
