"This unique publication is a comprehensive guide to the Royal Families of South-East Asia, both reigning and formerly reigning royalty, covering Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Brunei. Each chapter contains a comprehensive photographic and genealogical guide to the families covered as well as brief historical sketches of each family. The lavish photography covers a period of over one hundred years, beginning in the late 19th century and ending in the present day. Rare photographs depicting major ceremonies of state, royal portraiture and other material have been assembled from public and private collections in Asia and Europe as well as from the personal collections of members of the Royal Families. The result is a breathtaking assembly of images depicting the court life of some thirty Royal Families. Each chapter also includes detailed family trees showing the royal lines from the first ruler to the present day. The family trees are decorated with the royal arms of each family as well as portraits of rulers and their consorts. It is intended that this publication will be an invaluable source of reference to diplomats, politicians, lawyers, historians and all those interested in the history and development of the region through the lives of its rulers and their courts. Much of the material has been derived from the Royal Families themselves who have verified it and approved its publication. The book is beautifully produced and lavishly illustrated as befits its subject matter and will provide and insight into the hitherto neglected areas of traditional court costumes, regalia, court ceremonial, the official duties and overseas tours[,] the private life and the portraiture of the Royal Families of the region" – back cover.